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Canadian Chills #2
Ghost Hotel
Can two modern-day kids solve the mystery of the ghost that haunts the old hotel--or will they be trapped in the past forever?
Walter Biggar Bronson (a.k.a. Wart) and his friend Cindy meet a ghost one night after school. The small, mournful boy leads them across the Broadway Bridge to the gracious Bessborough Hotel. After a strange incident in the elevator, they find themselves still in the hotel–but back in 1936.
Some spooky things are going on. The room numbers are all mixed up. The library on the mezzanine is filled with hundreds of copies of the same book. And out on the street, the cars are all the same–vintage Studebakers.
Back in the present, Wart and Cindy follow their motto–“Gather, identify, solve”–as they attempt to crack the case, with help from Wart’s distinctly odd parents and the loan of his mother’s time-travel-proof cell phone.
If they fail, they may be trapped in the ghostly past forever . . .
Walter Biggar Bronson (a.k.a. Wart) and his friend Cindy meet a ghost one night after school. The small, mournful boy leads them across the Broadway Bridge to the gracious Bessborough Hotel. After a strange incident in the elevator, they find themselves still in the hotel–but back in 1936.
Some spooky things are going on. The room numbers are all mixed up. The library on the mezzanine is filled with hundreds of copies of the same book. And out on the street, the cars are all the same–vintage Studebakers.
Back in the present, Wart and Cindy follow their motto–“Gather, identify, solve”–as they attempt to crack the case, with help from Wart’s distinctly odd parents and the loan of his mother’s time-travel-proof cell phone.
If they fail, they may be trapped in the ghostly past forever . . .
144 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2004
About the author
Arthur Slade
76 books525 followersArthur Slade was raised in the Cypress Hills of southwest Saskatchewan and began writing at an early age. He is the author of the bestselling The Hunchback Assignments series of books, Dust (which won the Governor General's award), Tribes and Jolted. He lives in Saskatoon, Canada (which really is a real place). Join his creative & somewhat clever newsletter at: what a zany newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 28, 2024
This is a story about a boy named Archibadald Tortle who died at a very young age with his parents back in the days dated February 17, 1936, and has been moving around as a ghost because he hasn’t come to terms with his death. Only for him to appear to Walter Biggar Bronson, popularly known as Wart by his friends, and his best friend named Cindy, whom together they run a business known as Walter Biggar Bronson Ghost Detective and time travel agency at their school in Victoria School. And together, they tried to solve the mystery surrounding the death of the young boy and the reason why he met them.
A spectacular thing I loved at first glance in this story was the announcement he made when he got home, and the reason why he made it was actually quite hilarious and interesting. The book was so daring, venturesome, and puzzling in nature that one couldn’t guess what to expect in it. The best character in this book has to be my little Wart, who showed great courage and mastery in solving the mysteries that he faces.
I would recommend the book to people who like adventurous and captivating books to keep the mind as well as the soul busy with trying to imagine the things that they’ve read.
A spectacular thing I loved at first glance in this story was the announcement he made when he got home, and the reason why he made it was actually quite hilarious and interesting. The book was so daring, venturesome, and puzzling in nature that one couldn’t guess what to expect in it. The best character in this book has to be my little Wart, who showed great courage and mastery in solving the mysteries that he faces.
I would recommend the book to people who like adventurous and captivating books to keep the mind as well as the soul busy with trying to imagine the things that they’ve read.
June 28, 2024
This book and series are back in print in a new Shadowpaw Press Reprise edition. I am thankful this book and series are back in print. Walter the 'Wart' Bigger Bronson and Cindy his best friend witness a ghost in their school and they follow it to the historic Bessborough Hotel. While there, they are transported back in time to 1936. Walter and Cindy are twelve year old detectives and they investigate the paranormal.
This book is a ghost story that is both intense and humorous. Walter states early in the book:
“The problem with Saskatoon is that no one believes it exists. Oh, sure, the people who live here, Saskatonians (or Saskatoonians or Tooners), know the place is real, but step outside the city limits, and no one believes there is, or ever was, such a place as Saskatoon.
“Didn’t it sink into the sea?” they say. “Was that the capital of Atlantis? Or was it covered by a volcano?” The Prime Minister never visits. The Queen was here once, but no one believes that. “Who in their right mind would name their city after a purple berry?”
Saskatoon is the Bermuda Triangle of the prairies. It’s also the ghost capital of Canada. People complain about ghosts in their cellars, popping up their laundry chutes, starting their lawnmowers at night (but never cutting the lawn—they’re lazy ghosts), and taking cabs and paying in old money that disappears seconds later. They even stride along the Meewasin Trail and tap couples on the back just as they’re about to kiss.
Hey, I’m not complaining—ghosts are good for business. Once I solved this mystery, I’d make the front page of The StarPhoenix, and my phone would be ringing off the hook with calls from little old ladies wanting to get the ghosts out of their pianos and mechanics trying to find the ghosts in their machines.”
When I tracked down a previous edition of these books we donated it to our kid’s school library. Now that it is back in print, my son and I am rereading them again together. It was fantastic to reread this book 14 years apart. I enjoyed it even more this second time through. The description of this book states:
“Can two modern-day kids solve mystery of the ghost that haunts the old hotel--or will they be trapped in the past forever?
Walter Biggar Bronson (a.k.a. Wart) and his friend Cindy meet a ghost one night after school. The small, mournful boy leads them across the Broadway Bridge to the gracious Bessborough Hotel. After a strange incident in the elevator, they find themselves still in the hotel–but back in 1936.
Some spooky things are going on. The room numbers are all mixed up. The library on the mezzanine is filled with hundreds of copies of the same book. And out on the street, the cars are all the same–vintage Studebakers.
Back in the present, Wart and Cindy follow their motto–“Gather, identify, solve”–as they attempt to crack the case, with help from Wart’s distinctly odd parents and the loan of his mother’s time-travel-proof cell phone.
If they fail, they may be trapped in the ghostly past forever ...”
The story is mash up of ghost story, history, humour and of course friendship. It is a whole lot of fun. This is another excellent school story wrapped in a historic mystery filled with humour.
It is a great read and I can easily recommend it!
This book is a ghost story that is both intense and humorous. Walter states early in the book:
“The problem with Saskatoon is that no one believes it exists. Oh, sure, the people who live here, Saskatonians (or Saskatoonians or Tooners), know the place is real, but step outside the city limits, and no one believes there is, or ever was, such a place as Saskatoon.
“Didn’t it sink into the sea?” they say. “Was that the capital of Atlantis? Or was it covered by a volcano?” The Prime Minister never visits. The Queen was here once, but no one believes that. “Who in their right mind would name their city after a purple berry?”
Saskatoon is the Bermuda Triangle of the prairies. It’s also the ghost capital of Canada. People complain about ghosts in their cellars, popping up their laundry chutes, starting their lawnmowers at night (but never cutting the lawn—they’re lazy ghosts), and taking cabs and paying in old money that disappears seconds later. They even stride along the Meewasin Trail and tap couples on the back just as they’re about to kiss.
Hey, I’m not complaining—ghosts are good for business. Once I solved this mystery, I’d make the front page of The StarPhoenix, and my phone would be ringing off the hook with calls from little old ladies wanting to get the ghosts out of their pianos and mechanics trying to find the ghosts in their machines.”
When I tracked down a previous edition of these books we donated it to our kid’s school library. Now that it is back in print, my son and I am rereading them again together. It was fantastic to reread this book 14 years apart. I enjoyed it even more this second time through. The description of this book states:
“Can two modern-day kids solve mystery of the ghost that haunts the old hotel--or will they be trapped in the past forever?
Walter Biggar Bronson (a.k.a. Wart) and his friend Cindy meet a ghost one night after school. The small, mournful boy leads them across the Broadway Bridge to the gracious Bessborough Hotel. After a strange incident in the elevator, they find themselves still in the hotel–but back in 1936.
Some spooky things are going on. The room numbers are all mixed up. The library on the mezzanine is filled with hundreds of copies of the same book. And out on the street, the cars are all the same–vintage Studebakers.
Back in the present, Wart and Cindy follow their motto–“Gather, identify, solve”–as they attempt to crack the case, with help from Wart’s distinctly odd parents and the loan of his mother’s time-travel-proof cell phone.
If they fail, they may be trapped in the ghostly past forever ...”
The story is mash up of ghost story, history, humour and of course friendship. It is a whole lot of fun. This is another excellent school story wrapped in a historic mystery filled with humour.
It is a great read and I can easily recommend it!
June 21, 2024
Coteau Books' motto is Amazing stories, Amazing kids. This series by Arthur Slade lives up to that motto. I have now read two of the three and they are great stories. Walter the 'Wart' Bigger Bronson and Cindy his best friend witness a ghost in their school and they follow it to the historic Bessborough Hotel. While there, they are transported back in time to 1936. Walter and Cindy are twelve year old detectives and they investigate the paranormal.
This book is a ghost story that is both intense and humorous. Walter states early in the book: "The main reason this time travel and ghostly otherworldly stuff happens is because I live in Saskatoon. The problem with Saskatoon is that no one believes it exists. Oh sure, the people who live here, Saskatonians (or Saskatoonians or Tooners), they know the place is real, but step outside the city limits and no one believes there is, or ever was, such a place as Saskatoon. … Saskatoon is the Bermuda Triangle of the prairies. It's the ghost capital of Canada." So after encountering a ghost who led them into the past they must now figure out what is bothering the ghost and how to settle its spirit.
Ghost Hotel and the whole Canadian Chills series studies the world of the mysterious, the unknown and attempts to answer questions. It helps readers explore questions and 'what ifs' that often arise in life. Wart and Cindy have a great friendship and the characters are believable, and as they delve into the mystery they must find inner strength and character in order to get through this mystery together. It is a great story in a great series.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Arthur.
This book is a ghost story that is both intense and humorous. Walter states early in the book: "The main reason this time travel and ghostly otherworldly stuff happens is because I live in Saskatoon. The problem with Saskatoon is that no one believes it exists. Oh sure, the people who live here, Saskatonians (or Saskatoonians or Tooners), they know the place is real, but step outside the city limits and no one believes there is, or ever was, such a place as Saskatoon. … Saskatoon is the Bermuda Triangle of the prairies. It's the ghost capital of Canada." So after encountering a ghost who led them into the past they must now figure out what is bothering the ghost and how to settle its spirit.
Ghost Hotel and the whole Canadian Chills series studies the world of the mysterious, the unknown and attempts to answer questions. It helps readers explore questions and 'what ifs' that often arise in life. Wart and Cindy have a great friendship and the characters are believable, and as they delve into the mystery they must find inner strength and character in order to get through this mystery together. It is a great story in a great series.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Arthur.
May 25, 2024
Arthur Slade's "Ghost Hotel" is a delightful and inventive tale that seamlessly blends mystery, adventure, and time-travel elements to create a captivating read for young audiences.
The story follows Walter Biggar Bronson, affectionately known as Wart, and his friend Cindy as they stumble upon a ghostly encounter that transports them back in time to the year 1936. As they find themselves trapped in the past within the grand Bessborough Hotel, they are confronted with a series of peculiar occurrences that hint at a deeper mystery lurking beneath the surface.
Slade's narrative is filled with charm and whimsy, capturing the imaginations of readers as they embark on a thrilling journey through time. The author skillfully balances moments of suspense and humor, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. From the eerie encounters with the ghostly boy to the puzzling anomalies within the hotel, every twist and turn adds to the intrigue of the story.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its endearing cast of characters. Wart and Cindy are relatable protagonists whose friendship and resourcefulness shine throughout the story. Alongside Wart's eccentric parents and the assistance of a time-travel-proof cell phone, they form a dynamic team determined to unravel the mysteries of the past and find a way back to the present.
As Wart and Cindy navigate the challenges of their temporal predicament, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of working together to overcome obstacles. Through their adventures, readers are reminded of the timeless appeal of curiosity and the power of ingenuity in the face of adversity.
"Ghost Hotel" is not only a thrilling tale of mystery and adventure but also a heartwarming exploration of the bonds of friendship and the wonders of exploration. Arthur Slade's imaginative storytelling and engaging characters make this novel a must-read for young readers and anyone who enjoys a good adventure through time. With its clever twists and satisfying conclusion, "Ghost Hotel" is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.
The story follows Walter Biggar Bronson, affectionately known as Wart, and his friend Cindy as they stumble upon a ghostly encounter that transports them back in time to the year 1936. As they find themselves trapped in the past within the grand Bessborough Hotel, they are confronted with a series of peculiar occurrences that hint at a deeper mystery lurking beneath the surface.
Slade's narrative is filled with charm and whimsy, capturing the imaginations of readers as they embark on a thrilling journey through time. The author skillfully balances moments of suspense and humor, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. From the eerie encounters with the ghostly boy to the puzzling anomalies within the hotel, every twist and turn adds to the intrigue of the story.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its endearing cast of characters. Wart and Cindy are relatable protagonists whose friendship and resourcefulness shine throughout the story. Alongside Wart's eccentric parents and the assistance of a time-travel-proof cell phone, they form a dynamic team determined to unravel the mysteries of the past and find a way back to the present.
As Wart and Cindy navigate the challenges of their temporal predicament, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of working together to overcome obstacles. Through their adventures, readers are reminded of the timeless appeal of curiosity and the power of ingenuity in the face of adversity.
"Ghost Hotel" is not only a thrilling tale of mystery and adventure but also a heartwarming exploration of the bonds of friendship and the wonders of exploration. Arthur Slade's imaginative storytelling and engaging characters make this novel a must-read for young readers and anyone who enjoys a good adventure through time. With its clever twists and satisfying conclusion, "Ghost Hotel" is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.
May 2, 2024
The Review
First and foremost, this was a truly entertaining and compelling children’s book. The author does a remarkable world-building in this book, building upon the core characters from the series and adding to their adventures in a natural yet fun way. The imagery and atmosphere in the book allow the reader to get lost in the rich mythos of the world the author has created and easily enjoy the fun and spooky moments in this novel.
Yet, for me, the true heart of this story came in both the setting and the subject matter of the narrative. First, the setting of Saskatoon in Canada was fantastic, as it speaks to the culture and way of life that anyone not from Canada may not realize occurs and allows readers to experience life for those who do live there. Second, the paranormal investigator backstory for the two protagonists was phenomenal. As a paranormal investigator, I saw two young characters embracing the paranormal so heartedly and embracing that sense of weirdness, adventure, and curiosity, which was fantastic to see translated on the page.
The Verdict
Wonderfully written, haunting, yet thoroughly engaging, author Arthur Slade’s “Ghost Hotel” is an excellent addition to the Canadian Chills series and a must-read children’s paranormal mystery book. The twists and turns in the narrative, the emotional story developments of certain characters, and the adventurous tone that occurs will keep readers coming back for more and more of this epic series.
First and foremost, this was a truly entertaining and compelling children’s book. The author does a remarkable world-building in this book, building upon the core characters from the series and adding to their adventures in a natural yet fun way. The imagery and atmosphere in the book allow the reader to get lost in the rich mythos of the world the author has created and easily enjoy the fun and spooky moments in this novel.
Yet, for me, the true heart of this story came in both the setting and the subject matter of the narrative. First, the setting of Saskatoon in Canada was fantastic, as it speaks to the culture and way of life that anyone not from Canada may not realize occurs and allows readers to experience life for those who do live there. Second, the paranormal investigator backstory for the two protagonists was phenomenal. As a paranormal investigator, I saw two young characters embracing the paranormal so heartedly and embracing that sense of weirdness, adventure, and curiosity, which was fantastic to see translated on the page.
The Verdict
Wonderfully written, haunting, yet thoroughly engaging, author Arthur Slade’s “Ghost Hotel” is an excellent addition to the Canadian Chills series and a must-read children’s paranormal mystery book. The twists and turns in the narrative, the emotional story developments of certain characters, and the adventurous tone that occurs will keep readers coming back for more and more of this epic series.
February 10, 2022
My son and I read this book together. The first thing we loved - set in Saskatoon!! I used to live in Saskatoon, so knew all the places mentioned. It instantly felt familiar and relatable. What a great idea to have a mystery in the beautiful Bess! It was a bit too spooky for his taste, especially the sad ghost kid who had lost both parents, but I really enjoyed it. I also liked the tidbits of facts about the Bess that I hadn't known before! I will never drive by that stately building again and not think of this book!
September 8, 2012
Loved the Saskatoon connections!
December 7, 2013
I read this book like 3 years ago, so I can't remember much, however I know I really enjoyed! It's a mysterious book with an adventure tied in.
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August 16, 2013Chilling!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews