Book cover of The Name of the Star

Book description

Thrilling ghost-hunting teen mystery as modern-day London is plagued by a sudden outbreak of brutal murders that mimic the horrific crimes of Jack the Ripper.

"A gorgeously written, chilling, atmospheric thriller. The streets of London have never been so sinister or so romantic." Cassandra Clare, author of THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked The Name of the Star as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Jack the Ripper? Check. Girl who sees dead people? Check. Boarding school? Check, check, check. I feel like Bill Hadar’s SNL character Stefon when I say that this book has everything, but I can’t help it.

As someone who loves books with ghosts, murder, and page-turning thrills, this book does indeed have everything. 

From Stacy's list on thrillers with a dash of magic.

Many YA readers will be familiar with Maureen Johnson’s homerun success with the Truly, Devious series, but perhaps not have heard of her earlier Shades of London series. Anyone who loves ghostly tales and admires Johnson’s quirky, rock-solid prose should give The Name of the Star a read, stat.

This is the book equivalent of my spirit animal. I'm actually slightly alarmed at how closely Maureen Johnson's fantastic novel and my own interests align. Serial killers, ghosts, boarding schools--every element is wonderfully presented, and always with Johnson’s signature, humorous touch. Just perfect.

From Katie's list on young adult for spooks and thrills.

If you love The Name of the Star...

Book cover of The Monkey Stones

The Monkey Stones by Michele Sheldon,

Three friends become caught up in a monkey-worshipping cult when a stone circle suddenly appears overnight next to their home.

The cult is headed by famous racing driver Gordon Smash who disappeared in the Amazon rainforest in the 90s after a stunt went badly wrong. Alongside space tech billionaire Micky…

Want books like The Name of the Star?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like The Name of the Star.

Browse books like The Name of the Star

Book cover of Wilder Girls
Book cover of Here There Are Monsters
Book cover of Swipe Right for Murder

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,341

readers submitted
so far, will you?

📚 If you like The Name of the Star, you might also like...

Book cover of Beltany

Beltany by Valerie Biel,

Kindle Book Award Finalist. Readers' Favorite Book Award Finalist. Gotham Writers' YA Novel Discovery Contest Finalist. B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree

Brigit Quinn has always felt like an outsider. Growing up in a small town where her mom’s pagan practices are the stuff of local gossip, she’s spent her whole life trying…

Book cover of An Heir of Realms

An Heir of Realms by Heather Ashle,

An Heir of Realms tells the tale of two young heroines—a dragon rider and a portal jumper—who fight dragon-like parasites to save their realms from extinction. 

Rhoswen is training as a Realm Rider to work with dragons and burn away the Narxon swarming into her realm. Rhoswen’s dream is to…

5 book lists we think you will like!