Coming of Age

In this popular media coming of age series, the main character gradually moves toward crossing the line separating childhood from adulthood, much the same way as her lost souls cross the line between death and the afterlife. As Susannah struggles to understand the reasons why some of her ghosts have not crossed over, she also struggles with her own trials and tribulations as she works to cross over into adulthood. Her mediator status acts as a metaphor for Susannah's true coming of age journey.

In the beginning of the novel, Susannah is quick to react with violence, sarcasm, and attitude. On the advice of both Father Dominic and her handsome ghost friend Jesse, Susannah makes an effort to guide her spiritual charges more gently, with kinder words and a softer approach. Susannah slowly gains the ability to listen to the reason of her elders. She is...