"Ghost Bird" was a sinister YA mystery that had me hooked from the first page. Stacey is desperate to find her missing twin who has suddenly disappeared. Torn between her education and love of science and her indigenous community's superstitions, beliefs and feuds, Tace makes more and more decisions as her dreams show her twin in mortal danger.

I loved the author's writing style. I felt immersed in Tace's big, noisy family and her community with its prejudices. It was fascinating to get a glimpse into the Aboriginal culture. The language may be difficult for younger readers but I thought it gave the novel authenticity.

However, I was disappointed with the ending - it felt a bit rushed - but, overall, "Ghost Bird" was a rich tale that kept this reader on the edge of her seat through most of the story. ( )

It was billed as a supernatural thriller but was more a YA melodrama set in an Aboriginal Australian community. A teenage girl, Laney, goes missing when she's out stealing with a group of boys and the family rallies round to search for her. Her twin sister Stacey has dreams that seem to show what her sister is experiencing, and there are whispered stories of similar things happening to women previously.
It's nicely done, building up a picture of strong familial bonds in a harsh environment. I could have done with more exploration of the supernatural elements, but it was a satisfying read. ( )