Series Review: Lockwood & Co. 

By Jonathan Stroud 

5 Stars 

Lockwood & Co, a five-book series by Jonathan Stroud, is a thrilling supernatural adventure set in a ghost-infested version of London. In this world, only children and teenagers can sense or see ghosts, leading to the rise of ghost-hunting agencies. Among these, a small, quirky agency stands out: Lockwood & Co., run entirely by teenagers—Anthony Lockwood, George Cubbins, and the main character Lucy Carlyle.  

Unlike the corporate-run agencies staffed by hundreds of agents, Lockwood & Co. is independent and operates with just the three of them. Lockwood is the fearless leader, George is the sarcastic researcher, and Lucy is a highly talented ghost listener who becomes essential to the team. After a traumatic mission, Lucy flees her small-town agency and heads to London, where her lack of documentation leaves her with only one option: interviewing with the unconventional Lockwood & Co. This unlikely team-up sparks dangerous and thrilling adventures as they take on terrifying hauntings and uncover hidden conspiracies in the ghost-hunting industry.  

Throughout The Screaming Staircase, The Whispering Skull, The Hollow Boy, The Creeping Shadow, and The Empty Grave, the trio battles ghostly threats and dark secrets while the mysterious Lockwood’s own past unravels. The series masterfully balances high-stakes action with the evolving relationships among the three teens. Lucy’s determination, George’s skepticism, and Lockwood’s charisma make them a memorable team, navigating friendship, trust, and relentless dangers.  

One of the things I absolutely love about this series is the balance of fast-paced ghost-fighting action with well-developed dynamics between the trio. Whether it’s exploring haunted mansions, uncovering deadly conspiracies, or navigating the complexities of friendship and trust, the characters are memorable and, above all, relatable. Between Lucy’s determination, George’s skepticism, and Lockwood’s bravado, this series has kept me obsessed from the first page to the very last. 

Reviewed by Mahnoor 

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