If Your Kids Love Goosebumps, They’ll Love These Clean, Spooky Reads Too
Parents often look for stories that capture the spooky fun of Goosebumps without pushing past boundaries they’re comfortable with. That’s where clean middle-grade horror comes in — exciting, imaginative, and safe for kids ages 8–12. Here are some excellent options alongside our own Weirdacles series, designed to thrill while staying family-friendly.
The House with a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs
This classic, first published in 1973, remains a cornerstone of spooky middle-grade literature. It follows Lewis Barnavelt, who discovers his uncle’s house hides a magical clock that possesses apocalyptic powers. With humor, mystery, and just the right amount of eeriness, Bellairs created a story that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate new generations.
The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls by Claire Legrand
Released in 2012, this eerie tale follows Victoria as she investigates her best friend’s disappearance into the strange Cavendish Home. The book combines mystery, suspense, and courage without crossing into darker or inappropriate territory. It’s a creepy but clean option for kids who love problem-solving and uncovering secrets.
The Night Gardener by Jonathan Auxier
First published in 2014, this Gothic-style story follows two Irish orphans who find work at a crumbling English mansion that conceals a dark secret. Auxier blends chilling atmosphere with powerful, and universal themes of greed, family, and courage. It’s spooky enough to give kids thrills but also rooted in moral lessons that parents can appreciate.
City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab
Published in 2018, this modern favorite introduces Cassidy, a girl who gains the ability to see ghosts after a near-death experience. Set against the haunted backdrop of Edinburgh, the story balances suspense with friendship and bravery. Schwab delivers an eerie but imaginative adventure that feels fresh and relatable for today’s middle-grade readers.
Introducing Weirdacles: Faith-Friendly Thrills for a New Generation
At Loner Guy Publishing, we created Weirdacles to give kids the thrill of spooky storytelling in a clean, imaginative format. Some stories in the series weave in biblical themes, while others simply deliver age-appropriate scares. Author G.C. Gobin brings a unique dimension to the series. The protagonist in each story is either a kid raised in a Christian household, or a kid who wasn’t but instead befriended someone who was.
Regardless of the characters’ backgrounds, the staple of this series is its core theme — being a kid can be … weird. From answered prayers turning into chilling adventures to frightening hauntings, in this series weirdness isn’t just a quirky trait … it’s a terrifying reality kids can’t escape.
Why Clean Horror Works for Kids
Clean spooky stories let kids enjoy thrills without crossing into graphic or inappropriate material. They help children build courage, explore imagination, and fall in love with reading — while giving parents peace of mind.
Build a Library of Safe, Spooky Fun
From classics like The House with a Clock in Its Walls to modern favorites like City of Ghosts, clean horror has plenty to offer. Add Weirdacles to the shelf, and your kids will have a reading lineup that’s thrilling, imaginative, and family-friendly.