Night of the living mummy

Gr 4--7--Unlike his classmates, Happy Silverman is not scared by mummies. Instead, he's fascinated by all things ancient Egypt--even the gruesome mummification process itself. On a field trip to the history museum, Happy has one goal: get up close to a mummy. Though the exhibit is closed, Happy uses middle grade trickery and subterfuge to sneak past the guards, eventually achieving his aim by finding Raman, a mummified boy king from 5,000 BCE. Much to Happy's surprise and terror, Raman immediately comes alive, forces Happy into his bandaged arms, and psychically demands that Happy help to find his magical amulet. With trademark short chapters, non-stop action, cliffhangers galore, and a twisty ending, this stand-alone installment does not disappoint. Chapters set "thousands of years ago" will also appeal to kids with a special interest in ancient Egypt. VERDICT With just enough horror to thrill but not terrify middle grade readers, this book is another solid buy from the Goosebumps universe.