Ghost

Reynolds, J.  (2016)  Ghost.  New York:  Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

2017 Best Fiction for Young Adults Top Ten



Summary

Castle Cranshaw, Ghost, is being raised by his single mother. His father is in prison for shooting at them. He is always getting in trouble at school. One day Ghost notices some kids running on the track and decides to give it a try. The coach allows him to try out for the track team and drives him to his house to ask him mom's permission. She agrees to let him run track if he stays out of trouble. After a few bumps in the road, Ghost begins to excel at track and becomes part of the team. He cuts the hi-tops off his shoes to make it easier to run, but the other kids make fun of him. He ends up visiting a shoe store and stealing a pair of fancy, silver shoes when the clerk isn't looking. He feels guilty about taking the shoes, but justifies it because he needs them to run fast. When Coach finds out that he stole the shoes, he is furious. Ghost begs him not to tell his mom because it would devastate her. Instead Coach makes him clean out his cab, apologize to the shoe store clerk, and doesn't give him a track uniform. He makes Ghost work hard to earn the uniform back and he is proud when Ghost is able to run in the race in front of his mom, aunt, and cousin.

Commentary

I listened to this book on audiobook and really enjoyed the narration. The narrator was very animated and really brought Ghost to life. I think that this book would appeal to some of the boys that are a little reluctant to pick a book. Ghost acted impulsively by stealing the shoes and had to suffer the consequences of those actions. Throughout the book, you are able to see how Coach provides a positive role model to Ghost and helps him reach his potential. Running provided an outlet for him, like sports provides an outlet for many other middle school aged students.

Book Trailer

Author Reads Excerpt