The Story

A proper English ghost meets his match when the Otis family from America buys his ancestral home. Sir Simon de Canterville has been frightening residents for centuries with his chains, mysterious bloodstains, and spooky appearances. He's ready to give the new owners the full treatment. But Mr. Otis offers him lubricant for his noisy chains. Mrs. Otis recommends a popular stomach remedy. The teenage twins set up tripwires and throw pillows at him. Only the gentle daughter, Virginia, sees the lonely soul behind the scares. The ghost, used to being the terror, finds himself utterly bewildered and increasingly desperate.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't a scary story—it's a witty and kind one. Wilde's humor is sharp but never mean. He pokes fun at both American practicality and stuffy British tradition, but always with a smile. The real magic is watching Sir Simon's transformation from a proud specter to a pitiful figure, and finally, to someone who finds peace. Virginia's compassion is the quiet heart of the tale. It makes you think about forgiveness, the weight of the past, and how sometimes the bravest thing isn't to scare someone, but to understand them.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who wants a classic story that feels fresh and funny. If you like clever dialogue, a plot that turns spooky tropes on their head, and a story that's both smart and sweet, this is your book. It's a quick, delightful read that proves Oscar Wilde's genius wasn't just in making us think, but in making us laugh and feel a little warmth, too.