The Haunting of Old Splinter

Author: Jack Mackay

Horror & ghost stories, chillers (Children's / Teenage)

Published on 17 September 2026 by Oneworld Publications in the United Kingdom.

Paperback | 288 pages
128 x 198 x 23 | 254g

From the highly acclaimed author of Gloam comes a spine-chilling reimagining of a classic horror tale.

'I virtually read it in one sitting when I actually should have been writing my own books ... I read this and felt seen.' Patrice Lawrence, Waterstones Children's Laureate'A spine-shivering story, brimming with horror and heart.' Jack Meggitt-Phillips'A modern master of the genre.' Anthony McGowan'As gripping as a spooky severed hand.' Sophie CleverlyOne magical relic. Two brothers. Three chances to defy fate.

Peter and his half-brother Adrian live in the shadow of Old Splinter – the ruined mansion on the hill where stories of dark magic swirl. Peter's stepdad is at his wit's end trying to renovate the place and cracks are starting to show in their once-happy family.

Desperate to bring their family back together, the brothers set out in search of the legendary wishing claw. But wishes are tricky things – as Peter discovers when something monstrous comes knocking at his door.

Be careful what you wish for...