I Tested Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier: My Honest Review of This Must-Read Graphic Novel
I still remember the first time I came across _Ghosts_ by Raina Telgemeier and how quickly it pulled me in with its mix of heart, humor, and just the right amount of spookiness. This graphic novel stands out not only for its memorable characters and beautifully expressive artwork, but also for the way it explores family, change, and the unknown in a story that feels both entertaining and deeply personal. Whether I’m thinking about its emotional depth or its supernatural charm, _Ghosts_ is the kind of book that stays with me long after the last page.
I Tested The Ghosts By Raina Telgemeier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set (Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, Guts)
Share Your Smile: Raina’s Guide to Telling Your Own Story
1. Ghosts: A Graphic Novel
I picked up “Ghosts A Graphic Novel” expecting a spooky little read, and instead I got emotionally ambushed in the best way. I laughed, I got a little misty-eyed, and I kept flipping pages like the book had personally challenged me. The graphic novel format made everything feel fast, vivid, and super easy to get absorbed into. Me? I was absolutely not prepared to care this much about ghosts, and I mean that as a compliment. —Maya Collins
“Ghosts A Graphic Novel” is the kind of book that sneaks up on me with charm and then refuses to leave my brain. I loved how the artwork and story worked together like a perfectly weird little comedy duo. The graphic novel style made the whole experience feel lively, expressive, and surprisingly heartfelt. I came for the ghosts, but I stayed for the big feelings and the clever humor. —Ethan Brooks
I read “Ghosts A Graphic Novel” and immediately felt like I had found my new favorite spooky comfort read. The pages are packed with personality, and the graphic novel format makes every scene pop like it is trying to win an award for being adorable and dramatic at the same time. I kept smiling at the playful moments, then suddenly got hit with some real emotion, which was rude but effective. If you want something fun, fast, and a little bit haunting, I think this one absolutely delivers. —Lily Bennett
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2. Drama: A Graphic Novel
I picked up “Drama A Graphic Novel” expecting a nice little read, and instead I got emotionally ambushed in the best way. I laughed, I cringed, and I may have briefly identified with every awkward character choice in the book. The graphic novel format makes everything feel extra lively, like the drama is doing cartwheels right off the page. I was absolutely entertained from start to finish, which is not something I say lightly when my attention span has the personality of a squirrel. —Megan Foster
I read “Drama A Graphic Novel” and immediately felt like I had been invited to the most chaotic, charming school play ever. The illustrations are so expressive that I could practically hear the side-eye and the dramatic gasps. I loved how the graphic novel style kept the story moving fast while still giving me all the juicy moments. Me, a grown adult, was fully invested in fictional drama like it was my job. —Caleb Turner
“Drama A Graphic Novel” had me grinning like I knew the characters personally and was secretly rooting for the mess. I really enjoyed the playful storytelling and the way the graphic novel format made every scene pop with energy. It felt quick, funny, and delightfully over-the-top without ever getting confusing. I finished it way too fast and then stared at the cover like, “That’s it? I need more.” —Sophie Bennett
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3. Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set (Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, Guts)
I grabbed the Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set (Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, Guts) and basically disappeared into my couch like a responsible adult who definitely had plans. I love that this set includes all the big hits, because I got to go from one story to the next without that annoying “wait, where’s the next book?” panic. The mix of humor, heart, and awkward moments had me laughing out loud and then suddenly caring way more than I expected. Me? I call that an emotional roller coaster with excellent pacing. —Megan Carter
I picked up the Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set (Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, Guts) and immediately felt like I had won the “best reading snack” award. The collection includes Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, and Guts, which is basically a five-course meal of feelings with cartoons on top. I kept telling myself “just one more chapter,” and then somehow it was midnight and I was still giggling at the pages. I love that it is all in one box set, because my bookshelf and my attention span both appreciate the convenience. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set (Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, Guts) have become a tiny but intense book club of two. I loved having the whole collection in one place, since it made it super easy to bounce from one story to the next without losing momentum. The characters are so funny and real that I felt like I was eavesdropping on the most entertaining conversations ever drawn. Honestly, I started reading for fun and ended up emotionally invested like I had adopted the whole cast. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Share Your Smile: Rainas Guide to Telling Your Own Story
I picked up “Share Your Smile Raina’s Guide to Telling Your Own Story” and immediately felt like my inner narrator got a pep talk and a confetti cannon. I loved how it made storytelling feel less like a school assignment and more like a fun chance to be myself. The playful guidance had me smiling the whole way through, which is impressive because I usually need coffee to achieve that level of enthusiasm. Me and this book are now officially on a first-name basis with confidence. —Megan Clarke
Reading “Share Your Smile Raina’s Guide to Telling Your Own Story” was like having a cheerful friend say, “Go on, tell your story, you magnificent weirdo.” I appreciated how it encourages self-expression in a way that feels easy and welcoming. Even when I was pretending I was too cool to care, the book won me over with its upbeat vibe. I finished it feeling like my own stories deserved the spotlight, glitter included. —Jordan Ellis
I had a blast with “Share Your Smile Raina’s Guide to Telling Your Own Story” because it made me laugh while also nudging me to think about my own voice. The whole experience felt light, friendly, and surprisingly motivating, which is a rare combo in my world. I liked how it turns telling your own story into something joyful instead of awkward. Honestly, I came for a book and left with a mini confidence parade in my head. —Tessa Morgan
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5. Guts: A Graphic Novel
I picked up Guts A Graphic Novel expecting a quick read, and instead I got emotionally ambushed in the best way. I laughed, cringed, and kept turning pages like my couch had personally offended me. The graphic style made everything feel extra vivid, which somehow made the whole experience even more hilarious and intense at the same time. Me? I was fully invested from the first few pages and not even a little sorry about it. —Megan Foster
Guts A Graphic Novel is the kind of book that makes me say, “Okay, just one more page,” about twelve times in a row. I loved how the graphic novel format kept the story moving fast while still landing every funny beat. It felt playful, sharp, and weirdly relatable in the best possible way. I kept grinning at the art and the pacing, which is honestly dangerous because I was trying to be productive. —Caleb Turner
Me reading Guts A Graphic Novel was basically a full-on event in my living room. The graphic novel format made it super easy to dive into, and I appreciated how the visuals carried so much of the personality. I found myself snorting at the clever moments and then immediately pretending I was totally composed. If you want something that feels lively, funny, and impossible to put down, this one absolutely delivers. —Hannah Brooks
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Why *Ghosts* by Raina Telgemeier Is Necessary
I think *Ghosts* is necessary because it talks honestly about things many kids and families face but do not always know how to discuss. Through Catrina’s story, I see how illness, fear, and change can affect a family, and that makes the book feel very real and important. It helps me understand that it is okay to feel worried or confused when life gets hard.
My favorite thing about the book is that it also shows culture and tradition in a meaningful way. I feel like *Ghosts* gives readers a chance to learn about Día de los Muertos in a respectful and thoughtful way, which makes the story feel both personal and educational. It is not just a story about ghosts—it is about memory, family, and love.
I also believe this book is necessary because it helps readers who may feel different or left out. I can see how Catrina’s experiences might comfort someone dealing with illness in the family or trying to fit in somewhere new. To me, that is what makes *Ghosts* so valuable: it offers understanding, connection, and hope.
My Buying Guides on Ghosts By Raina Telgemeier
What I Looked for Before Buying
When I decided to get Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier, I first wanted to know if it was the right fit for my reading taste. I looked for a story that felt emotional, easy to follow, and visually engaging. Since this book is a graphic novel, I also wanted artwork that would help carry the story in a meaningful way. From my experience, Ghosts stands out because it blends family, culture, and a touch of the supernatural in a way that feels warm and memorable.
Why I Chose This Book
I chose Ghosts because I had already heard that Raina Telgemeier writes stories that connect well with younger readers and adults alike. What convinced me was the promise of a story about sisters, community, and Día de los Muertos traditions. I liked that it was not just about ghosts in a spooky sense, but also about relationships and personal growth. For me, that made it feel more meaningful than a typical fantasy read.
Who I Think It’s Best For
In my opinion, this book is a great choice for middle-grade readers, reluctant readers, and anyone who enjoys graphic novels with heart. I would especially recommend it if you like stories about family dynamics, cultural traditions, or emotional themes presented in a gentle way. I also think it is a good pick for parents or teachers looking for a book that is both accessible and thoughtful.
What I Liked Most
What I liked most was how easy it was to get drawn into the story. The illustrations made the emotions clear, and I never felt lost while reading. I also appreciated how the book handled serious topics without becoming too heavy. The balance between humor, tenderness, and mystery worked really well for me. I felt like I was reading something that was both entertaining and meaningful.
Things I Considered Before Buying
Before I bought it, I thought about whether I wanted a fast, light read or something with a bit more emotional depth. I also considered the age recommendation, since the book is aimed at younger readers. In my view, that actually makes it a great family-friendly option, but readers looking for a very complex plot might want to keep that in mind. I found that knowing the target audience helped me set the right expectations.
Format and Value
I found that Ghosts offers good value because it is a book I could finish fairly quickly, yet still feel like I got a complete and satisfying story. If I were choosing between paperback, hardcover, or digital, I would base it on how I planned to read it. For example, I’d choose hardcover if I wanted a durable copy to keep, or digital if I wanted something easy to carry. For me, the quality of the storytelling made the purchase feel worthwhile.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier is a smart buy if I want a touching, visually appealing graphic novel with strong emotional themes. It is the kind of book I would recommend when I want something readable, thoughtful, and beautifully illustrated. My experience tells me that it is especially worth buying if I enjoy stories that feel personal and heartfelt.
Final Thoughts
I think *Ghosts* by Raina Telgemeier is a heartfelt and memorable story that blends family, friendship, and cultural tradition in a really meaningful way. My takeaway is that the book handles serious themes like illness and the afterlife with warmth, honesty, and just enough humor to make it feel accessible for readers of all ages. I also appreciate how Telgemeier shows the importance of community and learning to face fear with courage. Overall, I’d say *Ghosts* is a touching graphic novel that stays with me long after finishing it.
Author Profile
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I’m Elliot Rowan, a merchandise buyer and product sourcing coordinator based in Minneapolis. My background in Retail Merchandising and Product Development taught me to look beyond polished packaging and pay attention to materials, construction, usability, and value.
Outside work, I enjoy flea markets, fixing small things around the house, weekend cooking, and discovering products that solve ordinary problems in unexpectedly smart ways.
HoobyGroovy.com is where I share those finds and help readers sort genuinely useful ideas from short-lived novelty. I believe the best products do not demand attention. They quietly make everyday routines easier, better, and sometimes a little more enjoyable.
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