Leo: A Ghost Story

A New York Times Best Illustrated Book--now in paperback!

"A fearful ghost, a take-charge girl, an interracial friendship, and a tale in which fear is . . . sweetly tied to positive qualities of imagination." --The New York Times

Most people cannot see ghosts. Can you? Follow Leo in this heartfelt tale about a friendly ghost who, after struggling to fit in, sets off on a journey of self-discovery and friendship, capturing the magic of belonging and the unexpected joys of adventure.

You would like being friends with Leo. He likes to draw, he makes delicious snacks, and most people can't even see him. Because Leo is also a ghost. When a new family moves into his home and Leo's efforts to welcome them are misunderstood, Leo decides it is time to leave and see the world. That is how he meets Jane, a kid with a tremendous imagination and an open position for a worthy knight. Leo and Jane become friends, and that is when their adventures begin.

This charming tale of friendship--from two of the best creators in picture books: the author of the Caldecott Honor-winning Extra Yarn and the illustrator of the Newbery Medal-winning Last Stop on Market Street--is destined to become a modern classic that will delight readers for years to come.

New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year

A TOUCHING GIFT FOR YOUNG READERS: This heartwarming tale about an invisible ghost in search of connection makes a beautiful gift for children, parents, and anyone who loves stories that celebrate the joy of friendship and feeling seen.

IDEAL FOR SPOOKY FUN AND YEAR-ROUND READING: With a gentle, spooky twist, Leo is the perfect blend of charm and mystery, making it an ideal read for fans of ghost stories, Halloween, and anytime tales of magical adventure.

CHARMING ILLUSTRATIONS AND AWARD-WINNING CREATORS: With illustrations by Christian Robinson and a story by Mac Barnett, this is a visually captivating and heartwarming tale that will spark the imagination of picture book lovers of all ages.

Praise for Leo: A Ghost Story:

★ "A warm and wise story about acceptance trumping difference."--Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ "Dazzling." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ "A whimsical tale from Barnett aptly accompanied by enthralling artwork by Robinson." --School Library Journal, starred review

★ "A tender, touching story of friendship and the power of imagination." --Booklist, starred review

Perfect for:

• Fans of ghost stories and the spooky season
• Parents and grandparents seeking stories about friendship and belonging
• Anyone looking for picture books with a sweet, spooky twist
• Fans of acclaimed author Mac Barnett and illustrator Christian Robinson

Author: Mac Barnett
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Published: 07/07/2026
Pages: 52
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.50lbs
Size: 9.90h x 7.90w x 0.30d
ISBN: 9781797239231
Audience: Ages 4-8

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 2.9
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 175344 / Leo: A Ghost Story

About the Author
Mac Barnett is the New York Times bestselling author of many picture books, including Telephone and Extra Yarn, which won a Caldecott Honor, the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, and the E.B. White ReadAloud Award. Mac Barnett has been selected as the ninth U.S. National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, appointed by the Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader. He lives in Oakland, California.

Christian Robinson has illustrated many acclaimed picture books, including Last Stop on Market Street, which received a Newbery Medal, Caldecott Honor, and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, and Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, which received the Coretta Scott King Honor, a Robert F. Sibert Honor, a Bologna Ragazzi Honor Award for nonfiction, and a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor. He lives in Oakland, California.