2024 Midland Authors Award for Children’s Fiction

“An irresistible narrative, rich with exciting clues.”—Editor’s Pick, PW Booklife

“A fine mystery with winsome characters and a complicated old house.”—Kirkus

Twelve-year-old Madeleine "Lainie" Stanton is about to make headlines. She was the first baby born at the new millennium, and a local TV station wants an interview. But when the reporter uncovers the dark history of Lainie's great-grandmother Maddie, who was executed for murder, the interview takes a dangerous turn.

Determined to clear her ancestor's name, Following clues left by Madeleine herself, Lainie and her two best friends unravel a shocking mystery that has been buried for decades.

A must-read for fans of The Parker Inheritance and The Dollhouse Murders.

“An exciting exploration of history, justice, and the long-lasting impact of the past.”—Readers’ Favorite

Maddie's Ghost is a story with heart, humor, family, friends, and a mansion with hidden nooks and crannies, from the award-winning author of Eddie's War and The Bridge Dancers.

Carol Fisher Saller is the author of Maddie's Ghost, Eddie’s War and The Bridge Dancers. Honors for her children’s books include Kirkus Best, Bank Street Best, Horn Book Recommended Verse, NCSS/CBC Notables, the Carl Sandburg Award for Children’s Literature, the Midland Authors Award for Children’s Fiction, and Chicago Public Library’s Best Teen Fiction.