Jacqueline K. Ogburn's The Bake Shop Ghost (Houghton Mifflin, 2005) is an extremely charming tale.

As the title suggests, it's about a haunted bakery and its determined new owner. The story follows a similar pattern to many old folktales where beings grant wishes. However, this one has an interesting twist, almost like a buddy-cop dynamic.

It's a great deal of fun and is perfect for those whose children are scared of ghosts and such. The bake shop ghost is a mischievous character, but the protagonist's ways of handling the mischief will become clear after multiple readings. Hopefully, the kids will then calm down, at least when it comes to baking.

Until Ogburn releases a sequel (perhaps The Saute Pan Ghost? One can only wish.), you're on your own with the rest. Overall, it's a *** 1/2 read.

My oldest child absolutely adores this book.

It tells the tale of a rather grumpy baker woman who passes away and then proceeds to haunt the bakery, preventing any other bakers from establishing their shops there.

Although it might sound a bit creepy for a children's story at first glance, it truly isn't.

Eventually, someone does arrive who is able to reach the old ghost. However, I won't reveal the ending.

The book is filled with vivid descriptions of delicious and mouthwatering cakes.

Moreover, there is a recipe in the back that I believe I'm going to utilize for my daughter's upcoming birthday.

It's a wonderful book that combines an engaging story with the allure of delectable treats and a practical recipe.

I'm sure my daughter will love it just as much as my oldest does.