The Grumpy Ghost Upstairs - by Mamiko Shiotani (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A grumpy little ghost makes a new friend in this wryly funny, spooky-but-cute picture book with striking illustrations reminiscent of Brian Selznick. A little ghost lives in the attic of a big house. All alone: just how he likes it. Until one day a curious girl disturbs his peace and quiet. Why won't the annoying and slightly scary child go away? So he decides to do what ghosts do best... Shy little ones will smile at the antics of the grumpy ghost in this charmingly offbeat story about being brave, adapting to change, and having the courage to open up to others. Perfect for spooky season and beyond!"--

Book Synopsis

A grumpy little ghost makes a new friend in this wryly funny, spooky-but-cute picture book with striking illustrations reminiscent of Brian Selznick.

A little ghost lives in the attic of a big house. All alone: just how he likes it. Until one day a curious girl disturbs his peace and quiet. Why won't the annoying and slightly scary child go away? So he decides to do what ghosts do best...

Shy little ones will smile at the antics of the grumpy ghost in this charmingly offbeat story about being brave, adapting to change, and having the courage to open up to others. Perfect for spooky season and beyond!

Review Quotes

A Bank Street Best Book of the Year 2026

'An instant story time classic. It has all the hallmarks of a great group read.'--BookPage, Starred Review

'The little ghost's depiction is particularly delightful... Nothing to boo here, and much to enjoy.'--Kirkus Reviews

'A bravely curious child's persistence helps a solitary spirit find connection in Shiotani's softly told story about overcoming fear. Meticulous hand-drawn illustrations stick to a palette of grays, with spot pastel coloring suggesting the gradual brightening of the shade's mood and world.'-- Publishers Weekly

'What truly sets this book apart are the charcoal illustrations... making the attic setting and characters come alive. A heartwarming book with exquisite illustrations that young readers will adore.'--Sara Perrera, YA Books Central

'This sweet book speaks to introverts of all ages, honoring the desire for solitude, while opening the door to the power of friendships.'--Youth Services Book Review

'A sweet, gentle story that should warm young hearts.'--Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's and Young Adult Literature

'This book is perfect for year-round use... The message is thoughtful without being didactic. Just an all-around lovely book that is perfect for home and classroom libraries!'--Read, Teach, Write

'A delightful story about coming out of your comfort zone but [with] a few twists to keep it fresh and interesting.'--Northshire Bookstore

'I've never related to a ghost more in my life. What a gem of a book, what a perfect and silly character!'--Shelby Baseler, The Novel Neighbor, Webster Groves, MO

'This is just the sweetest and silliest story. The illustrations and storytelling are so nostalgic. I can see this book being to the next generation what The Snowman was to mine.'--Sydney Fancher, Charter Books, Newport, RI

'A sweet story about friendship in unlikely places, this is a fun storytime selection.'--Mom Read It

'Looks at solitude and friendship, with a sweet and spooky edge.'--BookRiot

'A beautifully illustrated book about new friendships.'--Growing Book by Book

Told alongside hazy, dreamlike charcoal-pencil illustrations, this is the sweet story of an unlikely friendship and learning to face our fears... The little ghost is kind of endearing despite his grumpiness.--Kids Read the World

About the Author

Mamiko Shiotani is an award-winning author and illustrator from Japan. She studied ceramics at Joshibi University of Art and Design, Tokyo, and created background art for animated feature films before turning to picture books. The Grumpy Ghost Upstairs is her first book to be published in English.