Millennial Nostalgia: The Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson

There are a lot of misconceptions about Craig Davidson’s The Saturday Night Ghost Club.

If you believe the reviews on TikTok (which, to be fair, nobody should), then this one is either a slasher or a thriller, or a coming-of-age horror a la Stranger Things. Readers who buy the book for these reviews, or its own blurbs, are potentially going to be disappointed, but only if they ignore the rough gem this one turns out to be.

Ghost Club is a sometimes-mesmerizing coming-of-age tale that weaves together elements of nostalgia, mystery, and the potentially supernatural. Set in the 1980s, the story revolves around Jake Baker, a neurosurgeon reflecting on his childhood during a pivotal summer in Niagara Falls, Canada. The narrative unfolds through Jake’s recollections as he recounts his experiences as a member of the Saturday Night Ghost Club, a group led by his eccentric Uncle Calvin, who owns a curiosity shop filled with oddities and artifacts related to the macabre.

Davidson’s writing drew me into the world of young Jake and the colorful characters that populate his life. The author’s ability to capture the essence of childhood, with its wonder, vulnerability, and curiosity, is special. The story is one that evokes innocence and possibility, as well as confusion. As his summer, and our story, unfolds, he and the reader both begin to learn more about Uncle Calvin, including why he is so strange, and why his friends and family treat him with such delicacy.

To me, the strength of this novel lies in its characters. Jake is a relatable and endearing protagonist, and his growth and development throughout the story are skillfully portrayed. The dynamic between Jake and his fellow Ghost Club members, Billy and Dove, is heartwarming and serves as the backbone of the narrative. Uncle Calvin, with his enigmatic persona and dark past, adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the tale, which is perhaps where both the “slasher” and “Stranger Things” comparisons come in, though I still think they’re overstated.

That said, while the book is a rather straightforward, though sad, coming-of-age story, it does venture into some dark territory. Davidson delves into themes of trauma and the darker aspects of human nature, which may be unsettling for some readers. However, these elements are balanced by moments of genuine warmth and humor, creating a rich tapestry of emotions that resonates long after the final page.

One minor drawback is that the pacing can be uneven at times, with certain sections feeling slightly rushed while others linger. Some of the “ghost club” episodes, too, seem a bit disjointed. I think the reader is set up to believe (much like Jake does?) that the unfolding tale is going to be one of paranormal phenomena; but after that first, inexplicable episode, which perhaps we can chalk up to a young boy’s suggestibility or to the fickleness of memory, the future outings are much more realistic and, ultimately, entirely explainable. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story.

A compelling storyline. Memorable characters. An engaging read. By delving into the realm of childhood and the secrets it holds, Davidson reminds us of the lasting power of our past and the importance of facing our ghosts. This was a touching summer read.

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