THE FACTS
It is a hardcover Hallmark Children’s Editions book that is often dated to 1972, with other copies or editions dated 1985 and 1987. It may also have been reissued in other years. It was written by Dean Walley, intended perhaps for children aged 4 to 8 and illustrated by Arlene Noel.
THE STORY
The charming story is both whimsical and spooky, sharing a visit to a haunted house with characters Tommy Tribble and Stephanie Pepper via various pop-ups and pull tabs. The text on the back reads, "Are there really such things as ghosts and witches and monsters? A Visit to The Haunted House shows that these horrible creatures may not be what they seem to be at all. Children will enjoy sharing the scary adventures of Tommy Tribble and Stephanie Pepper as they unravel the mystery of Halfway House. The story offers plenty of thrills and chills, plus the comforting reminder that it’s fun to be scared when you know it’s just pretend."
REVIEWS
This is a book that people own and pass onto their children or that people owned and now want to have for their children. Those who already own it report that their children love it. One review that I read said that the writer and her children read the book at least four times a week. I can understand that; Halloween and pop-up books are just so, so very popular.
Adult readers like the vintage illustrations and the pop-ups. Some of them find the plot predictable but most say that is okay because they like the way the book was made and its nostalgic charm.
WHERE TO BUY A VISIT TO THE HAUNTED HOUSE
Looking for a copy of A Visit to The Haunted House for your family? Click here to see what is available on eBay. Shop carefully by reading the full descriptions and taking a good look at all of the photographs so that you will know what you are buying. Naturally, copies in excellent condition are hard to find and sell for more than copies that were much beloved and handled by young children. Expect to pay between US$20 and US$100 depending on the condition of the book. Originally, some of these books were sold wrapped in cellophane. If you hold out for a new copy of the book you may want to look for one that is still sealed. However, I can see that only three new copies have sold on eBay in the last three years. Waiting for a new one to be available may mean waiting for quite a while to buy this book.
Happy Reading!
Boo-renda
Treasures By Brenda
MORE HALLOWEEN READING:
When Witches Go Riding and Black Cats Are Seen: The Halloween Poem That Inspired These Spooky Finds
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
FOLLOW US ON:
