Im Bann der Dämonen.

william sleator

Julie's parents have invited a Thai boy to come live with them for a school year. Julie becomes upset. The boy's letters and photograph gives him the appearance and attitude of a nerd, someone who might embarrass her at school, where she has worked hard to heighten her popularity status. However, the boy who arrives is a poised, heavy smoker. He acts politely, as expected, but also possesses an imperturbable demeanor. Bia's good looks and cool composure promise to supply him with a high social status at school, and Julie the envy of her girlfriends. Then her younger brother Dominic builds a traditional Thai spirit house in their backyard in hopes to make Bia feel more at home. Strange events start to occur. Suddenly, Bia acts hostile towards Julie. Does a spirit actually dwell in their backyard?And is Bia using its power to help himself - and harm Julie?