THE JUMBIES by Tracey Baptiste is one author's way of bringing Caribbean folklore and spooks to middle grade horror books.  I had not heard of a jumbie before, but Baptiste defines it at the end in her author's note as "the name for every bad-thinking, sneaky, trick-loving creature that comes out at night with the purpose of causing trouble." She continues to talk about how, in Trinidad, people talk about jumbies "as if they might be your next door neighbor or cousin's girlfriend."  They could be anyone!

And while jumbies can be anyone, I think this story also highlights how family can be what you make it.  Being blood or half-blood does not always mean you're family.  Likewise, you can have a family comprise of friends.  Family is what you make it and how you see it.  There is a lot of friendship, family, and love in this Caribbean tale for sure!

This book is part of a trilogy (currently -- not sure if there are plans for more installments or not) and I am extremely excited to pick up the next two!  It's no secret that I am a huge fan of MG horror - and this is exceptionally different as it is telling a story that is so new to me and so fascinating!  I was pulled into the forest and could smell and see all the oranges in this story.  I felt the claustrophobia of the jumbie weeds taking over.  And I could sense the presence of the yellow glowing eyes watching me from afar.

I highly encourage this if you are into some MG spooks, Caribbean folklore, or just want some entertaining read!