This book is the next one up for discussion in the "Treehouse Book Club" for 4th-6th graders. It is book one in "The Last Apprentice" series. Twelve year old Thomas Ward is the seventh son of a seventh son. He is set to become the apprentice of Old Gregory who is called "The Spook." It is the job of a Spook to deal with ghosts, boggarts, witches, and other spirits that are causing problems. Thomas is the thirtieth apprentice to attempt the job of ultimately taking Gregory's place. Nine of the previous apprentices died while trying. Thomas must prove his worth as an apprentice by dealing the evil, blood-sucking witch, Mother Malkin who was freed by his own mistake. When the witch threatens his own family Thomas must succeed or lose everyone who is dear to him. The scratchboard illustrations add to the dark and creepy atmosphere.
This series was originally published in England and called "The Wardstone Chronicles" with this book titled The Spook's Apprentice. Personally, I like the original titles better. There is also talk of a movie with Alex Pettyfer in the starring role.
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