Jonathan Stroud’s The Screaming Staircase captivates with its atmospheric setting and well-crafted, eerie plot. Readers praise the engaging characters and thrilling adventure, though some find the pacing uneven. Ideal for fans of supernatural mysteries, this book blends humor and suspense effectively, making it a compelling read despite minor flaws.

Fans of thrilling, supernatural adventures like Harry Potter and Lockwood & Co. will enjoy The Screaming Staircase by Jonathan Stroud. This reader appreciates well-crafted ghost stories, clever protagonists, and a touch of humor. Ideal for those who love intricate plots and atmospheric settings.

In The Screaming Staircase, Lucy Carlyle joins Anthony Lockwood and George Cubbins in their ghost-hunting agency, Lockwood & Co., in a ghost-infested, quasi-post-apocalyptic London. They investigate a haunted mansion with a dangerous reputation, uncover a sinister plot linked to a past murder, and use their unique abilities to navigate the perilous supernatural world.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Unnerving

- The Screaming Staircase is the first book in the popular Lockwood & Co. series, which skillfully blends ghost hunting with detective work, captivating readers with its unique take on the supernatural.
- The series, including The Screaming Staircase, has earned critical acclaim for its witty banter, atmospheric setting, and well-developed characters, leading to a dedicated fanbase and multiple award nominations.
- The success of The Screaming Staircase and its series inspired a Netflix adaptation, bringing the ghostly world of Lockwood & Co. to the screen and expanding its reach to new audiences.

**Lucy Carlyle**  
The protagonist and narrator who joins Lockwood & Co. for her unique ability to hear and feel spirits, bringing a focus on uncovering the origins of hauntings. Her dedication and emotional connection to the ghosts she encounters drive much of the narrative.

**Anthony Lockwood**  
The deuteragonist and founder of Lockwood & Co., known for his ability to see death-glows and his charismatic, daring nature. He leads the agency with a mix of humor, optimism, and strategic cunning in pursuit of solving supernatural mysteries.

**George Cubbins**  
An original member of Lockwood & Co., initially perceived as abrasive but vital for his research skills and attention to detail. His evolving role as an active participant in the team's ghost-hunting efforts highlights his growth and importance to the agency’s success.

**Mr. Fairfax**  
The wealthy owner of Fairfax Iron, whose involvement with the agency marks him as a figure of intrigue. His eccentricity and initial intentions create tension as Lockwood & Co. navigate the challenges he presents.

**Inspector Barnes**  
A DEPRAC agent whose skeptical view of the youthful agency creates friction. He serves as both a critic and a reluctant ally, monitoring Lockwood & Co.'s activities with a mix of authority and begrudging respect.

**Hugo Blake**  
A former lover of Annabel Ward, whose enigmatic presence and past connection to the haunting are sources of suspicion. His character adds layers of mystery to the unfolding investigation.

Jonathan Stroud

Middle grade

Novel

Lockwood & Co.

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Screaming Staircase reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Screaming Staircase | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Screaming Staircase Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Screaming Staircase Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Ghost”

Part 1 The Screaming Staircase Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Before”

Part 2 The Screaming Staircase Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Necklace”

Part 3 The Screaming Staircase Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Hall” - Part 5: “And After”

Parts 4-5

The Screaming Staircase Parts 4-5 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Screaming Staircase Character Analysis

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Themes

The Screaming Staircase Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Screaming Staircase Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Screaming Staircase Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Screaming Staircase Essay Topics

The Screaming Staircase Teaching Unit

Introduction

The Screaming Staircase Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

The Screaming Staircase Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

The Screaming Staircase Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

The Screaming Staircase Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

The Screaming Staircase Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

The Screaming Staircase Activities

Essay Questions

The Screaming Staircase Essay Questions

Exam Questions

The Screaming Staircase Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

The Screaming Staircase Exam Answer Key

The Screaming Staircase

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

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Book Details