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BASIC Boy: A digital ghost story
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You’ve heard of haunted houses … but what about haunted computers? What do you do when there’s literally a ghost in the machine? When the past collides with the present and something sinister's come along for the ride?
Cal Stubbs has big problems. It’s not just that he’s struggling to get used to his stepdad Rob, who’s weirdly obsessed with stone-age computers (what the heck’s a ZX Spectrum anyway?), while his real dad’s gone to ground. It’s not even that his geeky best friend has more luck with girls than he does.
No. It’s definitely more the creepy nightmares and the freaky messages coming through on the laptop from some sick psycho troll.
Meanwhile, back in 1984, the teenage Rob has a dark secret. He’s done something terrible … and a kid who died but won’t stay quiet is hell-bent on making him pay. And, mad though it sounds, the price might be his future stepson.
As Cal gets more disturbing messages and Rob struggles to remember exactly what happened in 1984, they soon realise that a malevolent shadow is breaking through into the present, intent on wreaking havoc. How do you fight a ghost that can program a computer? They’d better figure out how and quickly, before time runs out …
You’ve heard of haunted houses … but what about haunted computers? What do you do when there’s literally a ghost in the machine? When the past collides with the present and something sinister's come along for the ride?
Cal Stubbs has big problems. It’s not just that he’s struggling to get used to his stepdad Rob, who’s weirdly obsessed with stone-age computers (what the heck’s a ZX Spectrum anyway?), while his real dad’s gone to ground. It’s not even that his geeky best friend has more luck with girls than he does.
No. It’s definitely more the creepy nightmares and the freaky messages coming through on the laptop from some sick psycho troll.
Meanwhile, back in 1984, the teenage Rob has a dark secret. He’s done something terrible … and a kid who died but won’t stay quiet is hell-bent on making him pay. And, mad though it sounds, the price might be his future stepson.
As Cal gets more disturbing messages and Rob struggles to remember exactly what happened in 1984, they soon realise that a malevolent shadow is breaking through into the present, intent on wreaking havoc. How do you fight a ghost that can program a computer? They’d better figure out how and quickly, before time runs out …
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 15, 2013
11 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Peter
7 books2 followersFor more information about me, visit my website: christopher-peter.com. But for now, a few random facts…
• I’ve written six novels. The most recent, The Shell Keep, published in June 2023, and is my first novel aimed at adults.
• I've also written the Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer sci-fi series, for 8-12-year-olds. There are three books currently in this series: Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer, Moon Zoom and Mars Mission.
• My other two books are aimed at YA / teens – Falling Girl and BASIC Boy.
• I live and work in the UK, in the Oxford area.
• My main hobbies / pastimes, in no particular order are: spending time with my family, writing, reading, church stuff, films, walking and cycling.
What do I write?
Aside from the novels mentioned above, I’ve written a few short stories and flash fiction stories – and in many ways this the story form that interests me the most.
Why do I write?
I’ve always enjoyed it, but hadn’t done much about it until I turned forty. You could call it my mid-life crisis – at least it was safer than buying a motorbike and cheaper than taking up golf.
Which writers have influenced my writing / who are my favourites?
There are so many, but a very important one is Robert Westall. He was my favourite author in my early to mid-teens, and still among my favourites now. Most of his stories had a supernatural theme, and this is a key reason why I like ghost stories so much. He had a fantastically gritty, terse prose style and his characters were always utterly believable. One of his books - The Scarecrows - remains one of my very favourite novels.
• I’ve written six novels. The most recent, The Shell Keep, published in June 2023, and is my first novel aimed at adults.
• I've also written the Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer sci-fi series, for 8-12-year-olds. There are three books currently in this series: Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer, Moon Zoom and Mars Mission.
• My other two books are aimed at YA / teens – Falling Girl and BASIC Boy.
• I live and work in the UK, in the Oxford area.
• My main hobbies / pastimes, in no particular order are: spending time with my family, writing, reading, church stuff, films, walking and cycling.
What do I write?
Aside from the novels mentioned above, I’ve written a few short stories and flash fiction stories – and in many ways this the story form that interests me the most.
Why do I write?
I’ve always enjoyed it, but hadn’t done much about it until I turned forty. You could call it my mid-life crisis – at least it was safer than buying a motorbike and cheaper than taking up golf.
Which writers have influenced my writing / who are my favourites?
There are so many, but a very important one is Robert Westall. He was my favourite author in my early to mid-teens, and still among my favourites now. Most of his stories had a supernatural theme, and this is a key reason why I like ghost stories so much. He had a fantastically gritty, terse prose style and his characters were always utterly believable. One of his books - The Scarecrows - remains one of my very favourite novels.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
November 4, 2025
Learn from the past
Sometimes, the secrets and mistakes of the past seem invisible, but they can still affect us for a long time. The story mixes ghosts and old technology, but what really caught my attention was how the characters must face their fears and admit the wrong things they have done. It also made me think about how we sometimes try to hide our mistakes, even though that does not make them disappear, it only makes them stronger.
I also appreciated the importance of family and trust. Even when it is not easy, relying on others can help us through difficult moments. In the end, the story reminds us that we can all learn from the past, face our fears, and make choices that help us grow.
Sometimes, the secrets and mistakes of the past seem invisible, but they can still affect us for a long time. The story mixes ghosts and old technology, but what really caught my attention was how the characters must face their fears and admit the wrong things they have done. It also made me think about how we sometimes try to hide our mistakes, even though that does not make them disappear, it only makes them stronger.
I also appreciated the importance of family and trust. Even when it is not easy, relying on others can help us through difficult moments. In the end, the story reminds us that we can all learn from the past, face our fears, and make choices that help us grow.
December 20, 2013
This incredibly entertaining, well paced and excellently written ghost story is hard to stop reading once you begin.
What is the secret of its success? It isn't just that you get a good scare, although that is a terrific part of it.
The other aspect that is wonderful, however, is the fact that the reader comes to care and understand about the lives of the characters.
These people, whether you are immersed in 1984 or 2014, are very real. When they become trapped by the machinations of their computers it is flat-out frightening.
Whether back when(thirty years ago), or just around the corner in time (2014), the reader will become quite involved ... almost a part of the story.
The author, Christopher Peter, really knows how to hold one's interest. Each of your senses will be expertly assailed and on alert during the course of this novel. I have rarely enjoyed being frightened and being curious as to what would happen next quite so much as with Basic Boy.
What is more, everything which takes place is quite believable.
Essentially, the plot ties two boys together, one from 1984 and one from 2014. I am not spoiling anything when I note that the story jumps back and forth, chapter by chapter, between the two. They both get equal time in this story. By the end you will be reading with mounting excitement as the chapters go back and forth in time. The two main characters, Rob and Cal, will ultimately need to work together to defeat an unearthly menace which involves something they each love equally: their computers. Their families and friends will have to assist them in the fight.
I thought the author's descriptive powers were excellent. The writing evokes a mood of urgency and uneasiness. As well, there are humorous real life daily situations, described in a fun manner. You get a break from the tension this way. This is well done and unforced. That is a part of what makes this book so hard to put down.
I have loved all sorts of ghost and horror stories since I was a child. However I would definitely categorize this as most appropriate for Young Adult and any age above that. It is wonderfully honest in its depiction of the reality of family life. It is also unflinching in describing the life styles of teens struggling through their awkward years. That makes this fun to read, even while you are being scared out of your wits.
I thought all the major characters were quite real, yet noble. I cared what happened to them. Not once did I say to myself, "Ah, this is just a ghost story". Because it isn't just a ghost story.
Rather, it is a study of life in the nineteen eighties, an examination of life now, a comparison of what makes them the same and what makes them different, AND it's a cracking great ghost story on top of all that.
The computer comes of age in Basic Boy: A Digital Ghost Story.
You are going to love how chilling yet gratifying this book is. It is great fun!
Basic Boy, A Digital Ghost Story by Christopher Peter is a must-read for anyone who loves originally written adventure/thriller/horror stories!
Note: I am American. I had no problem understanding the difference in the style of writing or in understanding the vernacular. However there is no question that the author, Christopher Peter is British. Frankly, that made it even cooler!
What is the secret of its success? It isn't just that you get a good scare, although that is a terrific part of it.
The other aspect that is wonderful, however, is the fact that the reader comes to care and understand about the lives of the characters.
These people, whether you are immersed in 1984 or 2014, are very real. When they become trapped by the machinations of their computers it is flat-out frightening.
Whether back when(thirty years ago), or just around the corner in time (2014), the reader will become quite involved ... almost a part of the story.
The author, Christopher Peter, really knows how to hold one's interest. Each of your senses will be expertly assailed and on alert during the course of this novel. I have rarely enjoyed being frightened and being curious as to what would happen next quite so much as with Basic Boy.
What is more, everything which takes place is quite believable.
Essentially, the plot ties two boys together, one from 1984 and one from 2014. I am not spoiling anything when I note that the story jumps back and forth, chapter by chapter, between the two. They both get equal time in this story. By the end you will be reading with mounting excitement as the chapters go back and forth in time. The two main characters, Rob and Cal, will ultimately need to work together to defeat an unearthly menace which involves something they each love equally: their computers. Their families and friends will have to assist them in the fight.
I thought the author's descriptive powers were excellent. The writing evokes a mood of urgency and uneasiness. As well, there are humorous real life daily situations, described in a fun manner. You get a break from the tension this way. This is well done and unforced. That is a part of what makes this book so hard to put down.
I have loved all sorts of ghost and horror stories since I was a child. However I would definitely categorize this as most appropriate for Young Adult and any age above that. It is wonderfully honest in its depiction of the reality of family life. It is also unflinching in describing the life styles of teens struggling through their awkward years. That makes this fun to read, even while you are being scared out of your wits.
I thought all the major characters were quite real, yet noble. I cared what happened to them. Not once did I say to myself, "Ah, this is just a ghost story". Because it isn't just a ghost story.
Rather, it is a study of life in the nineteen eighties, an examination of life now, a comparison of what makes them the same and what makes them different, AND it's a cracking great ghost story on top of all that.
The computer comes of age in Basic Boy: A Digital Ghost Story.
You are going to love how chilling yet gratifying this book is. It is great fun!
Basic Boy, A Digital Ghost Story by Christopher Peter is a must-read for anyone who loves originally written adventure/thriller/horror stories!
Note: I am American. I had no problem understanding the difference in the style of writing or in understanding the vernacular. However there is no question that the author, Christopher Peter is British. Frankly, that made it even cooler!
November 10, 2025
A haunted computer?
The main plot of the story revolves around two main characters: Rob, haunted by his past, and Cal, Rob's stepson, who possesses a seemingly cursed computer that becomes a key piece in solving the mystery.
It's incredible how a story that blends horror, technology, and mystery delivers a message that can be considered a reflection for adults and a life lesson for younger readers.
For adults, it's about how everything done in the past eventually comes back to haunt the present and future, and for young people, it's about doing things right to avoid a future filled with regrets. It also leaves a clear message about the importance of family values and solidarity.
The book is a pleasant read, with very detailed descriptions of the characters' feelings, making it easy for the reader to identify with them.
The main plot of the story revolves around two main characters: Rob, haunted by his past, and Cal, Rob's stepson, who possesses a seemingly cursed computer that becomes a key piece in solving the mystery.
It's incredible how a story that blends horror, technology, and mystery delivers a message that can be considered a reflection for adults and a life lesson for younger readers.
For adults, it's about how everything done in the past eventually comes back to haunt the present and future, and for young people, it's about doing things right to avoid a future filled with regrets. It also leaves a clear message about the importance of family values and solidarity.
The book is a pleasant read, with very detailed descriptions of the characters' feelings, making it easy for the reader to identify with them.
November 8, 2025
Highly recommended
The author strikes a perfect balance between suspense and emotion, without resorting to exaggeration. Every strange message, every memory from the past, every digital apparition increases the intrigue and the feeling that something dark is about to explode. Although it has paranormal elements, it also offers a reflection on human connection, family, and the mistakes that can mark generations. It's one of those books that leaves you thinking even after you've closed it. If you like stories with mystery, technology, and a touch of classic horror, this novel is an excellent choice. It has everything you need to keep you glued to its pages: a well-constructed plot, deep characters, and twists that surprise you until the very end.
The author strikes a perfect balance between suspense and emotion, without resorting to exaggeration. Every strange message, every memory from the past, every digital apparition increases the intrigue and the feeling that something dark is about to explode. Although it has paranormal elements, it also offers a reflection on human connection, family, and the mistakes that can mark generations. It's one of those books that leaves you thinking even after you've closed it. If you like stories with mystery, technology, and a touch of classic horror, this novel is an excellent choice. It has everything you need to keep you glued to its pages: a well-constructed plot, deep characters, and twists that surprise you until the very end.
November 5, 2025
There are two storylines that make up the bulk of this story. One involves Rob, who in 1984 did something awful. The other takes place many years later, when Rob is the stepfather to Cal, who doesn’t like him much. Cal and Rob might need to get along in the present day to stop what’s happening, though. There’s a computer that appears to be haunted, and it seems as though what the teenage Rob did so many years ago could be the cause of it.
This is a fun, spooky book that’s equal parts ghost story and suspense novel. It has echoes of the Stephen King book It. If you’re into spine-tingling terror, this author delivers.
This is a fun, spooky book that’s equal parts ghost story and suspense novel. It has echoes of the Stephen King book It. If you’re into spine-tingling terror, this author delivers.
November 10, 2025
BASIC Boy by Christopher Peter is an intergenerational digital ghost story that features a boy, his stepdad that he doesn’t like much, and a haunted computer. With flashbacks to the 80s and an awful secret that stepdad Rob has been keeping since then, the book spans different eras as the plot darkens. There is plenty of suspense and creepy moments as the computer spews sinister messages at Cal and I found myself turning the pages eagerly to find out what happens next. If you enjoy supernatural horror blended with digital life, then this is a good choice for you. This book is an easy-to-read page turner. I give it five out of five stars.
December 13, 2013
"A Fantastic Haunting Thriller for Young Adults"
This is a fantastic, spooky story that will sweep you right into it reading non-stop. It's a tale of Callum Stubbs who lives in our modern, high tech society of 2014. It's also a story of Rob Black, his step-father living in 1984. The story starts with Cal having a fretful dream of running away to a place he's never been before, finding a key in his pocket that unlocks the entry door to a small cottage. He climbs the inside stairs and sees a boy engulfed in flames. The boy turns to him, know's Cal's name and says "I'm coming for you ..." A terrifying nightmare, don't you think? The next chapter gives you a glimpse of Rob's activity of 1984, sitting in math class where all the students are watching Mr. Howard, their instructor, fidget with a computer. Rob has a Spectrum computer at home he uses for gaming, and he has set up Mr. Howard's computer to show something different than the customary line graphs. Mr. Howard touts the benefits of the BBC Microcomputer language known as BASIC (Beginner's All-System Symbolic Instruction Code). And because of the stunt Rob has pulled on his teacher, his nickname is now BASIC Boy! Cal, in 2014, wants a Galaxy, which Rob has. It is the only computer in the home and it is the portal to the computer which Rob had has a teenager. There are many twists in this story as ghosts from the past appear in the now .. specifically, a young boy named Jason Lowe. Jason returns from the grave and haunts both Cal and Rob. This story is written extremely well and is well edited. Though this story takes place in England with some unfamiliar words, it does not impede the reading at all. Besides, young adults probably know all kinds of slang that adults will never catch onto. This author is very creative and the story totally absorbed me. Teens who seem locked into their computers will love this story, too.
This is a fantastic, spooky story that will sweep you right into it reading non-stop. It's a tale of Callum Stubbs who lives in our modern, high tech society of 2014. It's also a story of Rob Black, his step-father living in 1984. The story starts with Cal having a fretful dream of running away to a place he's never been before, finding a key in his pocket that unlocks the entry door to a small cottage. He climbs the inside stairs and sees a boy engulfed in flames. The boy turns to him, know's Cal's name and says "I'm coming for you ..." A terrifying nightmare, don't you think? The next chapter gives you a glimpse of Rob's activity of 1984, sitting in math class where all the students are watching Mr. Howard, their instructor, fidget with a computer. Rob has a Spectrum computer at home he uses for gaming, and he has set up Mr. Howard's computer to show something different than the customary line graphs. Mr. Howard touts the benefits of the BBC Microcomputer language known as BASIC (Beginner's All-System Symbolic Instruction Code). And because of the stunt Rob has pulled on his teacher, his nickname is now BASIC Boy! Cal, in 2014, wants a Galaxy, which Rob has. It is the only computer in the home and it is the portal to the computer which Rob had has a teenager. There are many twists in this story as ghosts from the past appear in the now .. specifically, a young boy named Jason Lowe. Jason returns from the grave and haunts both Cal and Rob. This story is written extremely well and is well edited. Though this story takes place in England with some unfamiliar words, it does not impede the reading at all. Besides, young adults probably know all kinds of slang that adults will never catch onto. This author is very creative and the story totally absorbed me. Teens who seem locked into their computers will love this story, too.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews