A sinister carnival rolls into town. A haunted house tricks all. A terrifying truth awaits.
Something terrible is haunting Dylan Wylde — an ominous figure in the woods that could ruin his life forever. Just when he thinks things can’t get worse, a mysterious carnival arrives on Weirdbey Island, and dark forces lurk behind its bright, twinkling lights. Whatever’s hiding there has even the island’s resident ghosts fleeing in terror.
As phantoms roam loose and a dastardly plot unfolds, Dylan and his friends are pushed to their absolute limits. Can they confront their deepest fears and strike back before wicked forces plunge the island into eternal darkness?
Perfect for Goosebumps fans and readers who can’t get enough of a good ghost story, The Island Scaregrounds is a wild, spooky middle grade adventure packed with phantoms, frights, and page-turning mystery — a favorite for reluctant readers who love a scare. Step right up, if you dare!
Book 3 in the Weirdbey Island series
Book Details & Publication Information
Publisher: Misty Island Press, Clinton, WA
Publication Date: June 24, 2020
PAPERBACK
ISBN: 979-8656787246
Page Count: 216 pages
Trim Size: 5.25 x 8 inches
EBOOK
ASIN: B08BT73LG8
AUDIOBOOK
ASIN: B08HR25VVR
Narrator: J. Scott Bennett
Length: 5 hours and 28 minutes
CATEGORIES
– Juvenile Fiction > Mysteries & Detectives > General
– Juvenile Fiction > Action & Adventure
– Juvenile Fiction > Horror > Spine-Chilling
SERIES INFORMATION
Book 3 of the Weirdbey Island series
Target Age: 8-12 years old (Middle Grade)
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is this book appropriate for?
The Island Scaregrounds is perfect for readers ages 8-12 (middle grade), though younger confident readers and adults who enjoy spooky adventures will love it too!
Is this book scary?
It has just the right amount of spooky! There is a creepy carnival, a haunted house and a ghost or two, but it’s never too frightening – perfect for fans of Goosebumps.
Do I need to read the books in order?
Each book in the Weirdbey Island series is a complete adventure, but reading them in order gives you the best experience as Dylan and his friends grow and face new challenges. Start with The Pirates of Penn Cove.
Is there an audiobook version?
Yes! The audiobook is narrated by J. Scott Bennett and is available on Audible, Apple Books and other audiobook platforms.
Where can I buy signed copies?
Signed copies are available at bookshops and gift stores across Whidbey Island, or by mail from my Signed Books page.
Story Elements & Tropes
Perfect for fans of spooky adventures! This book features:
- Creepy Carnival – The rides and games hide something sinister
- Haunted House – Not every scare is just for show
- Ghost Story – A restless spirit with a story to tell
- Facing Your Fears – Courage is the only way through
- Found Family – Dylan and his friends stick together no matter what
- Spooky But Not Too Scary – Perfect Goosebumps-level thrills
- Pacific Northwest Setting – Real locations on and around Whidbey Island