Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 74 votes)
5 stars
27(36%)
4 stars
23(31%)
3 stars
24(32%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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74 reviews
July 15,2025
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My review remains incomplete until such a time when I have actually made and tasted the Ghost-Pleasing Chocolate Cake recipe that is presented at the conclusion of the story.

I firmly predict that I will be more than just satisfied with the outcome.

The anticipation of creating this unique chocolate cake and savoring its flavors is building up inside me.

I imagine the rich and decadent taste of the chocolate, combined with the mysterious allure of the "Ghost-Pleasing" element.

It's not just about the act of baking and eating; it's about experiencing something new and exciting.

Once I have completed this task, I believe my review will be a more comprehensive and accurate reflection of the story and all its components.

Until then, I continue to look forward to that moment when I can finally take a bite of the Ghost-Pleasing Chocolate Cake and share my thoughts and feelings with you.
July 15,2025
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I couldn't believe my luck when we found this book.

First of all, it's about dessert, which is something we all have a great passion for.

Secondly, it involves ghosts, and my seven-year-old son is simply fascinated by them.

Thirdly, one of the two main characters is a woman of color, and we are constantly on the lookout for diverse books.

And finally, and most importantly, it's REALLY GOOD.

The story is told in a beautifully captivating way.

After town baker Cora Lee Merriweather passes away, no one can manage to stay in business for more than a few days in her now-haunted bake shop... until Annie Washington shows up.

Annie, having left her pastry chef job on a cruise ship to return to dry land, is determined to uncover the secret that will permanently remove Miss Merriweather's ghost from her kitchen.

But the question remains: does Miss Merriweather really need to leave?

Ogburn and Priceman have done a wonderful job collaborating on this book.

It's a longer read compared to some picture books, but it's definitely well worth it.

July 15,2025
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I definitely had to explain to Alla the whole bit about Cora Lee being the ghost.

It was not an easy task as she was initially quite skeptical. However, once we got past that, she was truly enchanted.

She listened intently as I described all the details and the strange occurrences that had led us to believe Cora Lee was the ghost.

Afterward, Alla's eyes sparkled with wonder.

And that recipe at the end of the story looks absolutely divine.

The thought of trying it out has been lingering in my mind.

But now I'm faced with a dilemma.

Where on earth do I get buttermilk powder?

I've been racking my brain, trying to think of all the possible places I could look.

Maybe I'll have to visit several grocery stores or even check online.

I'm determined to find it so that I can give that recipe a go and see if it tastes as good as it looks.
July 15,2025
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Randomly placing this in our book bag at the library was truly a delightful experience.

It tells the story of a bake shop owner who passes away (this part is rather briefly mentioned) and then haunts her former business. She manages to drive away several bakers who have the intention of purchasing it. However, she meets her equal in Annie, who presents her with a challenge that she must meet in order to earn back the bake shop.

I have a great affection for the illustrations in this book. Moreover, the "ghost story" aspect really piqued Owen's interest. This book would be an excellent choice for both girls and boys alike. It offers an engaging and unique narrative that can capture the imagination of readers of all genders. The combination of a spooky element and a heartwarming challenge makes it a truly enjoyable read.

Whether it's for a quiet afternoon at home or a shared reading session with friends, this book is sure to provide entertainment and excitement.
July 15,2025
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A children's book that combines the delicious world of cakes with the spooky realm of ghosts! How exciting is that? This unique book not only tells an engaging story but also includes a mouthwatering recipe for a chocolate birthday cake. Imagine the joy on a child's face as they read about the adventures of the characters and then get to create their own scrumptious treat. The book is filled with colorful illustrations that bring the story and the cakes to life. It's the perfect combination of entertainment and education. Whether it's for a birthday party or just a fun day at home, this children's book is sure to be a hit. So, get ready to embark on a delicious and spooky adventure with this amazing book!

July 15,2025
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I absolutely adored this book. It was truly a remarkable read, especially after I had written a novel about a mother who bakes a cake on a daily basis. The story in this book had a certain charm that captivated me from the very beginning.

It is an excellent choice for kids who are scared of ghosts. Halloween is just around the corner, and this book would be the perfect addition to their spooky season reading list.

The author has done a wonderful job of creating a world that is both thrilling and engaging. The characters are well-developed, and the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great read, whether it's for themselves or for the kids in their lives. It's a book that will surely leave a lasting impression.

Overall, I can't praise this book enough. It's a must-read for all those who love a good story with a touch of the supernatural.
July 15,2025
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Here is a really charming story. There was a baker who, after her death, chose to stay and haunt her very own bake shop. This ghost was not at all scary. Instead, she was simply funny and had a bit of a mean streak. It took a very resolute new owner to deal with the haunting. But once she managed to do so, the two bakers, one alive and the other a ghost, became quite an interesting pair. This story is a nice read for youngsters who have a passion for cooking. What's more, there is a delicious chocolate cake recipe in the back of the book, which makes it even more appealing!

July 15,2025
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I chose this book because one of my students actually recommended it to me :).

Summary -

The Bake Shop Ghost is an outstanding picture book for elementary students. Cora Lee Merriweather was a renowned baker in her town. When she passed away, the entire town grieved her loss as they feared they would never again taste such scrumptious cakes and pastries. After her death, a diverse range of excellent chefs and bakers attempted to revive the old bakery. However, after just one day, each baker left and sold the bakery because they were visited by a ghost - the ghost of Cora Lee.每当她来访时,她会把厨房弄得乱七八糟,还把面包师们弄得满身都是糖粉和鸡蛋。

But one day, a hard-working and creative baker, Annie Washington, came to the shop. She was resolute in standing up to Cora Lee. Annie thought innovatively and devised different ways to collaborate with Cora Lee. You'll have to read to discover if her bakery ever achieved success!
July 15,2025
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I don't have a fondness for ghosts. However, aside from that, I truly relished this story.

The story features a baker who is an elderly and cantankerous lady. Eventually, she passes away. Her bake shop then changes hands from one owner to another because Cora Lee haunts them.

It's an interesting tale that keeps the reader engaged. I particularly liked the artwork. It had a certain charm that reminded me of Ludwig Bemelmans. At the same time, it also brought to mind the illustrator of the "100 Dresses" book.

The combination of the captivating story and the appealing artwork made this a memorable read for me. I look forward to exploring more works that have a similar blend of elements.

Overall, despite my aversion to ghosts, this story managed to win me over with its unique plot and beautiful illustrations.
July 15,2025
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I vividly remember this book as it was once featured in Cricket magazine.

When the old baker passes away, her shop remains empty as nobody dares to take it over. The reason? She haunts those who attempt to fill her shoes.

However, as fate would have it, another baker appears, fearless and willing to take on the challenge of the ghost. After much negotiation, they reach an agreement. If the live baker can create a cake that brings tears to the eyes of the old baker, she will leave her alone.

In the process of baking and competing, an unexpected friendship blossoms between the two.

This book is truly well-written. No matter how hard I try to summarize it, I can never do justice to its charm and beauty.

I should mention that it is a relatively long book, which makes it more suitable for the older end of the 4-8 age range or for children with excellent attention spans. Cricket magazine even divided the book into sections to make it more manageable for young readers.

Overall, it is a wonderful story that combines elements of mystery, friendship, and baking.
July 15,2025
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It was okay.

I think it was written to appeal to adults more than children.

The reason is mainly because of the moral it conveys and all the various types of cake mentioned.

Let's face it, what kid really knows that many different kinds of cake or even cares about them?

Most children are more interested in the simple pleasures and adventures in a story rather than the details of different cake varieties.

However, for adults, the moral and the more complex elements might hold more appeal.

It could make them think and reflect on certain aspects of life.

Anyway, that's just my two cents on the matter.

Maybe others might have a different opinion, but this is how I see it.

July 15,2025
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This story is truly a delight to read aloud to a group.

I have been sharing it with my 4th and 5th graders, and they have been thoroughly enjoying it.

After reading the story, I show them the recipe for the Ghost-Pleasing chocolate cake as printed in the back.

Since we've been discussing Dewey Decimal, I take this opportunity to use it as a reminder of where they can go to find books about cooking.

I tell them that the 500s are for Science Experiments You Can Eat, and cookbooks in general can be found in that section.

Usually, after this little lesson, I see some students excitedly heading back to the 641.5 section of the library.

And, to be honest, it usually makes me hungry too.

Dang it!

It's amazing how a simple story and a recipe can spark such interest and curiosity in the students.

I love seeing their enthusiasm for learning and exploring new things.

It makes teaching all the more rewarding.

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