"The Screaming Staircase" is a children's horror novel written by Jonathan Stroud. It is the first book in the Lockwood & Co. series, which follows a group of young ghost hunters in an alternate version of London plagued by supernatural occurrences. The story centers on Lockwood, Lucy, and George, who investigate a haunted house with a notorious staircase that is said to scream. The novel combines elements of mystery, adventure, and humor, appealing to middle-grade readers. It explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the challenges of facing fears while dealing with the paranormal. The engaging plot and well-developed characters make it a popular choice for young readers.