Jack Mackay: The Haunting of Old Splinter

Be careful what you wish for… Join rising star of children’s horror Jack Mackay as he takes us inside the terrifying world of his latest novel, The Haunting of Old Splinter – a chilling story of family, dark magic and wishes that come with a terrible price. Peter and his half-brother Adrian live in the shadow of Old Splinter, a ruined mansion on the hill where stories of ancient relics, strange magic and long-buried secrets have swirled for years. Their family is struggling, and Peter desperately wants to find a way to make things right. Then he discovers the legend of the Wishing Claw – a magical hand said to grant your deepest desires. If the stories are true, it could be the answer to everything. But wishes are dangerous things. When Peter uncovers a horrifying secret hidden within the walls of Old Splinter, he and Adrian discover that some legends should have remained buried. Soon, something monstrous is stirring – and Peter must find a way to undo what he has unleashed before it is too late. Following his acclaimed debut Gloam, Jack Mackay returns with another spine-tingling adventure packed with horror, heart and brilliantly creepy storytelling. A writer, theatre-maker and lifelong horror enthusiast, Jack will reveal the inspirations behind The Haunting of Old Splinter, how he creates genuinely frightening stories for younger readers, where his monsters come from and why childhood fears can provide such fertile ground for fiction. Expect ghostly tales, dark secrets, behind-the-scenes insights and plenty of scares. A must for brave young horror fans – if they dare… The Haunting of Old Splinter for readers aged 8–14