How does Blossom initially 'discover' her ability to see ghosts?

Blossom initially 'discovers' her ability by fabricating a story to scare the boys who are trying to steal apples from her family's orchard. She claims to see the ghost of her Aunt Valley, who supposedly haunts the tree, a lie that unexpectedly manifests into genuine second sight.

What time period and setting does the story primarily take place in?

The story primarily takes place in 1914, beginning in the fictional Bluff City, Indiana. However, a significant portion of Blossom's spiritual journey transports her to the RMS Titanic during its fateful maiden voyage across the Atlantic Ocean.

Who are some of the key supporting characters in Blossom's life in Bluff City?

Key supporting characters in Bluff City include her practical and often exasperated grandmother, Aunt Valley (whose 'ghost' Blossom initially invents), and the various townspeople and schoolmates who are either intimidated or intrigued by Blossom's outspoken nature and burgeoning reputation.

What is the primary conflict Blossom faces once she is spiritually aboard the Titanic?

Once spiritually aboard the Titanic, Blossom's primary conflict is not only witnessing the impending disaster but also trying to understand her role and purpose among the ship's spectral passengers. She struggles with the helplessness of being a ghost herself, unable to directly alter the course of events or warn the living.

Are there any subtle clues early in the book that hint at Blossom's latent psychic abilities before she 'discovers' them?

While not explicitly stated, Blossom's vivid imagination, her ability to command attention, and her strong intuition, often manifested in her bold pronouncements, could be interpreted as subtle early indicators of her latent psychic sensitivity. Her initial lie about Aunt Valley's ghost feels almost too 'real' even to herself.

How does Blossom's experience with the Titanic ghosts connect back to her life in Bluff City?

Blossom's experience with the Titanic ghosts deeply connects back to her life in Bluff City by giving her a profound understanding of loss, empathy, and the interconnectedness of lives. It matures her perspective, making her less focused on mere notoriety and more on genuine understanding and compassion for others, both living and dead.

Are there specific historical details about the Titanic disaster that are accurately incorporated into Blossom's spectral journey?

Yes, the book incorporates several accurate historical details, such as the social stratification between first, second, and third-class passengers, the general atmosphere on board, the specific timeline of the sinking, and the sense of disbelief and eventual panic among those involved. Blossom encounters ghosts from different walks of life on the ship.

Does Blossom encounter any famous or historically significant figures among the Titanic ghosts?

While the book focuses more on the collective human experience of the disaster rather than celebrity encounters, Blossom does meet a diverse array of spectral passengers. These figures, though perhaps not individually famous, represent the cross-section of society aboard the Titanic, offering a poignant glimpse into their individual stories and fates.

How does Blossom's 'outcast' status in Bluff City influence her perception and acceptance of her new psychic abilities?

Blossom's 'outcast' status makes her more receptive to her psychic abilities, as she's already accustomed to being different and challenging norms. This unconventional background allows her to embrace the strangeness of seeing ghosts rather than being completely overwhelmed or denying it, using it initially as another way to assert her individuality.

What psychological journey does Blossom undergo from being a mischievous liar to genuinely possessing second sight?

Blossom undergoes a significant psychological journey, transitioning from a girl who fabricates tales for attention to one grappling with a profound, authentic gift. This forces her to confront the implications of truth and falsehood, responsibility, and the weight of witnessing tragedy, leading to greater maturity and empathy.

How does the experience of being a 'ghost' herself affect Blossom's understanding of mortality and the afterlife?

Being a 'ghost' herself profoundly affects Blossom's understanding of mortality, making death less abstract and more immediate. She experiences the limbo state of the departed, witnessing their lingering concerns and the emotional weight of their final moments, which deepens her appreciation for life and the interconnectedness of existence.

What is the psychological impact of witnessing the Titanic disaster from a spectral perspective on a young girl like Blossom?

Witnessing the Titanic disaster from a spectral perspective has a profound psychological impact on Blossom, forcing her to confront immense loss and human vulnerability without the ability to intervene. This experience instills in her a deep sense of empathy and a mature understanding of fate and tragedy, moving her beyond youthful self-centeredness.

Is Blossom's ability to see ghosts a permanent gift, or does it fade after her Titanic experience?

The book suggests that Blossom's ability to see ghosts becomes a more permanent, albeit perhaps more controlled, aspect of her being after her Titanic experience. While she might not always be actively engaging with the Unseen, the profound encounter fundamentally alters her perception of the world, leaving her with an enduring sensitivity.

What is the significance of the title 'Ghosts I Have Been'?

The title 'Ghosts I Have Been' is significant because it refers not only to the ghosts Blossom encounters but also to her own spectral journey aboard the Titanic. She literally becomes a 'ghost' herself during this spiritual out-of-body experience, blurring the lines between the living and the dead and highlighting her unique perspective.

How does the book blend historical fiction with fantasy elements, and what message does this convey?

The book masterfully blends historical fiction (the Titanic) with fantasy (Blossom's second sight and spiritual travel). This blend conveys the message that history is not just about facts, but also about the human experience, emotion, and the unseen forces or connections that shape events, offering a unique, empathetic lens on tragedy.

What role does humor play in a story that deals with such a tragic event as the sinking of the Titanic?

Humor, primarily through Blossom's feisty personality and witty observations, plays a crucial role in balancing the inherent tragedy of the Titanic disaster. It provides levity, makes Blossom a relatable and endearing protagonist, and allows the reader to process difficult themes without being overwhelmed by despair, enhancing the story's emotional depth.

Could Blossom's entire Titanic experience be interpreted as a vivid dream or a metaphor for her coming of age?

While presented as a genuine psychic experience, Blossom's Titanic journey could certainly be interpreted metaphorically as a vivid dream or a powerful coming-of-age allegory. It represents her confronting mortality, developing empathy, and shedding her youthful self-centeredness, signifying a profound internal transformation rather than just a supernatural event.

What is the ultimate message or lesson that Blossom learns from her encounters with the Unseen?

Blossom ultimately learns profound lessons about empathy, the interconnectedness of all lives, and the enduring nature of the human spirit. She discovers that even in tragedy, there is dignity and that understanding others' experiences, both living and dead, is more valuable than seeking mere notoriety or attention.

Ghosts I Have Been Summary by Richard Peck | BookBrief

Name: Ghosts I Have Been
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.03 (2006 reviews)
ISBN: 9780141310961

In 1890s Bluff City, Blossom Culp, known for her made-up ability to see ghosts, faces a terrifying reality when her lie becomes truth, sending her as a spectral passenger onto the ill-fated Titanic.

Synopsis

Blossom Culp, an outsider in 1914 Bluff City, Indiana, is known for her sharp wit and dramatic personality. When she claims to see ghosts, it's initially a lie for attention. But Blossom soon finds her boast is true: she has genuine second sight. This new ability is tested when she gets a mysterious invitation from Miss Dabney, who recognizes Blossom's talent. Under Miss Dabney's guidance, Blossom starts to understand her abilities. Her visions become vivid and powerful, leading to a shocking experience. Blossom finds herself not just watching, but 'on board' the RMS Titanic during its first voyage. She sees the ship's final hours, the passengers' terror, and its tragic sinking, becoming an unwilling witness to one of history's worst sea disasters. Amid the chaos, Blossom's role changes from observer to offering comfort to lost souls, especially a young boy she meets, before she is pulled back to Bluff City, forever changed by her spectral journey.

Reading time

90 min

Difficulty

Easy

Pacing

Moderate

Mood

Humorous, Adventurous, Eerie, Poignant

✓ Read this if...

You enjoy historical fantasy with a strong, witty female protagonist and a touch of the supernatural.

✗ Skip this if...

You prefer hard fantasy or entirely contemporary settings, or are sensitive to discussions of historical tragedies.

Plot Summary

Blossom Culp's Unseen Talent

Blossom Culp is a sharp, independent girl in 1914 Bluff City. She is known for her quick wit and navigating social circles, often clashing with the town's more respected people. To get ahead and avoid being an outcast, Blossom invents a story about having 'second sight' and being able to talk to the 'Unseen.' She uses this made-up ability to her advantage, subtly influencing situations and people. But this playful deception turns serious when Blossom truly starts seeing things others cannot, realizing her lie has become a surprising truth. She struggles to accept her initial fabrication with her unsettling new reality, which no longer feels like a game.

Miss Dabney's Peculiar Invitation

After Blossom's public claims of second sight, a strange invitation arrives from Miss Dabney, the town's quiet and unusual spiritualist. Miss Dabney, who has real psychic abilities, sees a similar spark in Blossom and wants to mentor her. This invitation both confirms Blossom's growing powers and scares her, as it forces her to face the truth of her 'gift.' During their first meeting, Miss Dabney shares specific details about Blossom's past and future that only someone with true second sight could know. This strengthens Blossom's belief in her own abilities and the seriousness of her situation. Miss Dabney becomes Blossom's reluctant mentor, guiding her through the initial confusion and fear.

The First Manifestation: The Boy in the Mirror

Blossom's second sight grows stronger, moving beyond quick glimpses to full apparitions. One evening, looking in her mirror, she sees not her reflection but a pale, distressed young boy. This encounter deeply unsettles Blossom, as it is her first clear, undeniable interaction with a spirit. The boy seems trapped and communicates urgency and fear without words. This incident confirms to Blossom that her abilities are real and powerful, but also that they bring responsibilities and potential dangers. She begins to understand that these 'ghosts' are not just imagined but are beings with their own stories and troubles.

Miss Dabney's Training

Under Miss Dabney's strict and unconventional teaching, Blossom starts to develop her second sight. Miss Dabney teaches her about different types of spirits, how to protect herself, and how to understand the often unclear messages from the 'Unseen.' Their sessions mix practical advice and spiritual guidance, often clashing with Blossom's practical and skeptical nature. Blossom first resists the discipline, preferring to use her abilities on her own terms, but slowly comes to respect Miss Dabney's wisdom and experience. This training helps Blossom understand the ethical aspects of her gift and the importance of using it responsibly, not just for personal gain or mischief.

A Glimpse of the Titanic

During one of her more intense psychic experiences, Blossom gets a powerful vision of a grand ship, the R.M.S. Titanic. The vision is fragmented but clear: the ship is huge, luxurious, and full of people, yet there is a strong sense of coming doom and icy cold. This premonition deeply disturbs Blossom, as it suggests a major disaster on a scale she has never imagined. She shares her vision with Miss Dabney, who recognizes its importance and the chance for Blossom to become involved in a historical event. This vision marks a turning point, moving Blossom's ghostly encounters from local spirits to a larger, more impactful historical context.

On Board the Doomed Ship

Blossom's connection to the Titanic grows surprisingly strong. Through a powerful and unintended psychic projection, she finds herself aboard the R.M.S. Titanic, not as a physical passenger, but as a ghost observer. She can see and hear the other passengers, experience the ship's grand atmosphere, and feel the growing tension and excitement. This is a terrifying yet fascinating experience for Blossom, as she is a witness to history unfolding. She moves through the decks, observing the lives of various passengers, from the wealthy in first class to the hopeful immigrants in steerage, all unaware of the approaching disaster. Her presence is unseen by the living, yet she is undeniably 'there.'

Witness to the Unthinkable

As the Titanic crosses the Atlantic, Blossom, still in her spectral form, helplessly watches the ship hit the iceberg. She feels the jolt and hears the grinding sound, followed by initial confusion and disbelief among passengers and crew. She observes the crew's frantic efforts, attempts to keep order, and growing panic as the situation's reality sets in. Blossom sees individual acts of bravery and cowardice, the class divisions that remain even in the face of death, and heartbreaking goodbyes. The sheer scale of the tragedy and the human drama around her deeply affect Blossom, moving her beyond mere observation to a deep emotional connection with the doomed passengers.

The Sinking and the Spirits

Blossom watches in horror as the Titanic slowly sinks into the icy water. She is present for the final, desperate moments, witnessing the ship splitting and its ultimate plunge. As the ship goes down, Blossom is overwhelmed by the sudden appearance of countless new spirits—the souls of those who died. These new ghosts are disoriented, some still clinging to the idea of life, others filled with confusion and despair. Blossom, now surrounded by many fresh spirits, feels a deep sense of responsibility and empathy for their plight. She realizes her abilities are not just for seeing the past, but for helping the newly departed find their way.

A Mission of Comfort

In the chaotic aftermath of the sinking, Blossom finds her purpose. Instead of just watching, she begins to interact with the new spirits of the Titanic. She offers comfort, guidance, and understanding to those who are lost and confused. She helps a young mother find her child, reassures a frightened old man, and gently directs others toward peace. Blossom's initial fear of her gift changes into deep compassion and duty. She becomes a source of hope for these tragic souls, using her unique ability to provide some solace in their sudden, untimely deaths. Her interactions are subtle but impactful for the spirits.

Return to Bluff City

After what seems like a long time aboard the doomed ship, Blossom is abruptly pulled back to her own time and body in Bluff City. The experience has left a lasting mark on her. She is no longer just the mischievous, quick-witted girl; she is a young woman who has seen immense tragedy and helped many souls. Her view on life, death, and her own abilities has deeply changed. She carries the weight of the Titanic's ghosts with her, understanding the true power and responsibility of her second sight. While her outward manner might still be lively, an inner maturity and a deeper understanding of the human condition now define her, making her a more empathetic and focused person.

Principal Figures

Blossom Culp

The Protagonist

Blossom transforms from a mischievous, self-serving girl who feigns psychic abilities into a genuinely gifted and compassionate medium, using her powers to help others.

Miss Dabney

The Supporting

Miss Dabney serves as a catalyst for Blossom's development, sharing her wisdom and experience to help Blossom embrace her true potential.

Mama Culp

The Supporting

Mama Culp remains a steadfast, grounding presence, providing a contrast to Blossom's fantastical experiences.

The Boy in the Mirror

The Mentioned

The boy in the mirror is a static character, serving as an initial manifestation of Blossom's powers.

Various Titanic Spirits

The Mentioned

These spirits are static, serving as a collective catalyst for Blossom's compassionate growth.

Themes & Insights

Embracing the Unseen and the Unconventional

The novel explores accepting what is beyond normal understanding, especially through Blossom Culp's journey. At first, Blossom pretends to have psychic abilities to fit in or gain an advantage in Bluff City, a town that values conformity. But when her lie becomes real, she must face and eventually embrace a world unseen by others. Her friendship with Miss Dabney, an openly unconventional spiritualist, supports this theme, showing that there is wisdom and power in those who take a different path. Blossom's acceptance of her 'second sight' ultimately leads to her deep personal growth and ability to help others.

““It was one thing to tell a lie, and quite another to have the lie come true.””

The Power of Compassion and Responsibility

As Blossom's second sight develops, she learns her gift comes with great responsibility. Her first use of her 'powers' is for mischief or social maneuvering. But her experience on the Titanic forces her to confront immense suffering and loss of life. Seeing the tragedy firsthand, and then interacting with the confused and frightened spirits, changes her. She moves beyond self-interest to deep compassion, using her abilities to comfort and guide the newly departed. This theme shows that true power is not in manipulation, but in empathy and the willingness to help those in need.

““She was no longer just Blossom Culp of Bluff City; she was a witness, a helper, a bridge between two worlds.””

Coming-of-Age Through Extraordinary Experience

Blossom Culp's journey is a powerful coming-of-age story, sped up and shaped by her supernatural abilities and her encounter with a historical tragedy. She starts as a rebellious and often self-centered teenager, trying to find her place in a small town. Her development of second sight, and especially her spectral journey to the Titanic, exposes her to life's fragility, the depth of human suffering, and the vastness of the unseen world. These experiences force her to mature quickly, building empathy, purpose, and self-awareness she lacked before. She returns to Bluff City a changed person, carrying the weight of profound understanding.

““The girl who had left Bluff City had seen too much to ever be quite the same.””

History as a Living Presence

The novel shows history not as a distant past, but as a living presence that can affect the present. Blossom's ability to 'see' the Titanic is not just a vision; she is transported to the event, becoming an active, though unseen, participant. This allows the reader to experience the historical tragedy through a unique lens, highlighting the human stories behind the headlines. The lingering spirits of the Titanic further show that history's impact goes beyond its immediate moment, and that the past can continue to influence and interact with the present through those who perceive it.

““The past was not merely memory; it was a place where she could go.””

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Second Sight / Psychic Projection

Blossom's ability to see and interact with ghosts, and to project her consciousness across time and space.

This is the central plot device, driving Blossom's entire journey. Initially, it's a fabricated ability, but it quickly becomes real. Blossom's second sight allows her to perceive spirits and communicate with them. More uniquely, it evolves into a form of psychic projection, enabling her to transcend physical boundaries and time, specifically transporting her consciousness to the R.M.S. Titanic. This device is crucial for both her character development and the unfolding of the plot, connecting her personal story to a major historical event and allowing her to act as a bridge between the living and the dead.

The Mentor Figure (Miss Dabney)

An experienced spiritualist who guides Blossom in understanding and controlling her abilities.

Miss Dabney serves as the classic mentor figure, providing Blossom with the knowledge, context, and discipline necessary to harness her erratic powers. Without Miss Dabney, Blossom would likely be overwhelmed or misuse her gift. The mentor-mentee relationship allows for exposition about the rules of the 'Unseen' world and provides a safe space for Blossom to explore her abilities. Miss Dabney's guidance is instrumental in Blossom's transformation from a mischievous girl to a responsible medium, ensuring she understands the ethical implications of her unique talent.

Foreshadowing / Premonition

Early visions and feelings that hint at future events, particularly the Titanic disaster.

The novel uses foreshadowing, primarily through Blossom's premonitions, to build suspense and prepare the reader for the major historical event. Blossom's initial, vague glimpses of the Titanic gradually become clearer and more intense, creating a sense of impending doom. This device not only heightens the dramatic tension but also establishes the credibility of Blossom's increasingly powerful second sight. It allows the narrative to slowly draw Blossom (and the reader) into the tragedy, making her eventual 'presence' on the ship feel like an inevitable consequence of her developing powers.

Historical Event as Catalyst

The sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic serves as the pivotal event for Blossom's personal transformation.

The historical event of the Titanic's sinking is not merely a backdrop but a central catalyst for Blossom's character arc. By placing Blossom directly into this immense tragedy through her psychic projection, the story forces her to confront profound themes of life, death, and human suffering on a grand scale. Witnessing the event and interacting with the spirits of the deceased fundamentally changes her perspective, transforming her from a self-absorbed teenager into a compassionate and purposeful individual. The Titanic's sinking provides the ultimate test and proving ground for her nascent abilities and moral development.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“The wind was a raw hand, grabbing at my skirts and trying to snatch my bonnet.”

— Describing the weather upon arriving at the the house in the country.

“Being a ghost, I’ve learned, is more about being forgotten than being dead.”

— Wise observation from Blossom C. Culp about the nature of ghosts.

“There are things in this world that can’t be explained by science, and those are the very things that make life worth living.”

— Blossom's grandmother, a spiritualist, imparting wisdom.

“A good story, like a good haunting, never really leaves you.”

— Blossom reflecting on the power of narratives and experiences.

“Being a brave person doesn't mean you're not scared. It means you do what needs to be done even when you are.”

— Blossom's internal monologue while facing a difficult situation.

“The past isn't dead. It isn't even past. It's just waiting for you to find it.”

— A recurring theme in the book, emphasizing the enduring presence of history.

“You can't outrun your own shadow, and you certainly can't outrun a ghost who wants to be found.”

— Blossom grappling with a persistent spectral presence.

“Every house has its secrets, and some houses have more than their share.”

— Introduction to the mysterious nature of the mansion where Blossom stays.

“It’s a peculiar thing, to be a ghost. You see everything, but nobody sees you.”

— Blossom experiencing the unique perspective of being an unseen entity.

“Sometimes the greatest adventures happen when you least expect them, and in the most unlikely places.”

— Blossom reflecting on her unexpected journey into the supernatural.

“The world is full of wonders, if you only know where to look, and how to see them.”

— A lesson learned by Blossom about opening her mind to the unknown.

“A good fright is like a good laugh; it clears the cobwebs from your mind.”

— Blossom's pragmatic view on experiencing scary events.

“Being a ghost, I discovered, was a lot like being a child: you were often overlooked, but you saw everything.”

— Blossom drawing a parallel between her ghostly state and her youthful observations.

“Some truths are too big for words, and some secrets are too heavy to carry alone.”

— Blossom realizing the profound nature of the mysteries she uncovers.

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Key Questions (FAQ)

The central premise revolves around Blossom Culp, a feisty and imaginative outcast in 1914 Bluff City, who pretends to have second sight to gain notoriety. To her astonishment, this lie becomes truth when she genuinely develops the ability to see ghosts, which inadvertently transports her spirit aboard the doomed RMS Titanic.

About the author

Richard Peck

Biography coming soon.

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