If your middle-grade reader liked Goosebumps: Night of the Living Dummy, they might also like:

• The Mummy in the Attic

• Doll Bones

• The Doll in the Garden

• Small Spaces

These books all tap into the delicious thrill of creepy objects, slow-burn suspense, and spooky surprises that feel daring without tipping into nightmare territory.

Here’s what they’re about

Goosebumps: Night of the Living Dummy

When twins Lindy and Kris find a ventriloquist dummy in a rubbish bin, it seems like a harmless toy — until it starts causing trouble. Lindy’s dummy, Mr Wood, begins saying cruel things on its own and stirring up fear and jealousy between the sisters. As pranks turn darker and the dummy appears more and more alive, Lindy realises something is very wrong. Packed with creepy twists, spooky humour, and a shocking ending, this classic Goosebumps tale delivers just the right amount of fright for young readers who love playful scares without true terror.

The Mummy in the Attic

When a strange mummy linked to Ancient Egypt enters his life, Tom McNabb finds himself caught in a mystery that refuses to stay buried. As unsettling events unfold, Tom must uncover the truth about the mummy, his family’s past, and secrets hidden far closer to home than he expected. Blending humour, suspense, and genuine emotional stakes, The Mummy in the Attic delivers a spooky-but-accessible adventure that balances chills with heart — perfect for readers who enjoy mystery, history, and a dash of the supernatural.

Doll Bones

When three friends discover a creepy doll said to contain a girl’s spirit, what begins as a game quickly becomes a dangerous quest. As they travel farther from home, the line between imagination and reality blurs, forcing them to confront fear, guilt, and growing up. Doll Bones combines genuine spookiness with emotional depth, exploring friendship and bravery in a way that feels both unsettling and heartfelt. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy creepy objects, suspense, and stories that linger long after the final page.

The Doll in the Garden

When Ashley moves into a new house, she discovers a doll hidden in an overgrown garden — and soon realises it may be connected to a tragic past. As strange things begin to happen, Ashley uncovers a ghostly mystery tied to love, loss, and unfinished business. The Doll in the Garden offers gentle chills rather than outright terror, making it perfect for younger or more sensitive readers who want a spooky story with emotional warmth and a satisfying resolution.

Small Spaces

When Ollie discovers a mysterious book warning her to stay out of small spaces, she ignores it — and soon finds herself trapped in a terrifying field of scarecrows. As the creatures come to life, Ollie must rely on her courage and quick thinking to survive the night. With eerie imagery, relentless tension, and a brave, resourceful protagonist, Small Spaces delivers genuine chills while remaining firmly kid-appropriate. It’s a gripping introduction to horror for middle-grade readers who love being scared just enough to keep the lights on.