The Canterville Ghost : Book Review

"The Canterville Ghost" is a beloved novella penned by John Escott. This classic tale revolves around the Otis family, Americans who move into Canterville Chase, a haunted English manor. The ghostly presence of Sir Simon de Canterville, who has been haunting the mansion for centuries, fails miserably in his attempts to scare the bold and pragmatic Americans. As the story unfolds, both the ghost and the Otis family learn valuable lessons about empathy, forgiveness, and the incredible power of love.

Escott's writing style is engaging and filled with humor, making "The Canterville Ghost" a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish. The story successfully combines elements of comedy and the supernatural, adding an interesting twist to the traditional ghost story genre. The author's vivid descriptions of the characters and setting bring the story to life, allowing readers to create a vivid mental image.

One of the highlights of the book is the dynamic relationship between the ghost and the Otis family. The stark contrast in their personalities and cultural backgrounds leads to hilarious interactions and numerous moments of comedy. As the story progresses, we witness the evolution of the characters, particularly the transformation of the ghost from a frightening figure to someone we can empathize with.

Aside from its entertaining storyline, "The Canterville Ghost" delves into profound themes like the power of love, the significance of redemption, and the truth hidden behind appearances. The book teaches us the importance of acceptance, as the Otis family learns to embrace and forgive the haunted specter rather than fear him. The narrative also challenges traditional beliefs and the fear of change, as the American family's pragmatic approach clashes with the outdated superstitions of the English aristocracy.

Overall, "The Canterville Ghost" by John Escott is a delightful and clever novella that skillfully weaves together humor, supernatural elements, and thought-provoking themes. It serves as a reminder that our greatest fears might not be supernatural creatures but instead our own preconceived notions and anxieties. Whether you are a fan of ghost stories or simply enjoy a well-written tale, this book is certain to captivate readers of all ages.

What are readers saying?

"The Canterville Ghost" by John Escott has received mixed reviews from readers. Some reviewers found the book to be an enjoyable and engaging adaptation of Oscar Wilde's original story. They appreciated the author's ability to capture Wilde's wit and humor, while still maintaining a modern and accessible writing style. The character development and unfolding of the story were particularly praised, making it a delightful and entertaining read.

However, not all readers were pleased with Escott's adaptation. Some felt that the humor and cleverness of Wilde's original work were lost in this version. They found the writing style to be too simplistic and lacking the depth and sophistication they expected from a book based on Wilde's story. The characterization was also criticized, as some felt that the adaptation failed to capture the charm and complexity of the original characters.

On the other hand, there were reviewers who appreciated the book for its educational value, especially for English language learners. They found the language and vocabulary to be accessible and helpful for improving their language skills. Escott was commended for creating a book that combines classic literature with an educational purpose, making it a valuable resource for language students.

There were also reviewers who enjoyed the book for its nostalgic value. Many of these readers had read Escott's adaptations when they were younger and expressed fond memories of the gripping and spooky atmosphere created by the story. They acknowledged that the book may not be perfect in terms of literary merit, but still found it enjoyable for its nostalgic and entertaining qualities.

Overall, opinions on John Escott's adaptation of "The Canterville Ghost" varied among readers. While some appreciated its engaging storytelling, humor, and educational value, others found it lacking in comparison to the original work. If you're a fan of Oscar Wilde and enjoy adaptations, this book may still be worth a read.

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