TL;DR
'Ghost' by Jason Reynolds follows the journey of Castle 'Ghost' Cranshaw, a middle schooler overcoming personal trauma while pursuing his dream of being the fastest sprinter on his elite track team.
What is Ghost about
'Ghost' is a compelling story about Castle 'Ghost' Cranshaw, a middle schooler with natural talent for sprinting. Set against the backdrop of a troubled past marked by his father's violence, Ghost's aspirations to be the fastest sprinter at his school offer a path to self-discovery and personal growth. The novel touches on themes of resilience, identity, and the struggle to overcome one's past. Written by Jason Reynolds, this book is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, offering teachable moments for young readers.
Ghost 7 Key Takeaways
Introduction to Ghost
Castle 'Ghost' Cranshaw is introduced as a naturally gifted runner who is haunted by his traumatic past involving his violent father.
Joining the Track Team
Ghost decides to join his school's elite track team, where he faces both external challenges from his teammates and internal struggles with his past.
Conflict and Struggles
As he trains, Ghost struggles with discipline and faces the consequences of his actions, including stealing running shoes.
Mentorship and Guidance
Coach Brody becomes a father figure to Ghost, offering him guidance and a sense of belonging, which helps him confront his past.
Overcoming Obstacles
Ghost learns to channel his anger and fear into his running, showing significant improvement and earning his place on the team.
Climax at the Race
The story reaches its peak during an important race where Ghost must prove himself not only to his team but also to himself.
Resolution and Growth
Ghost's journey towards self-acceptance and overcoming his past concludes on a hopeful note, demonstrating his personal growth and resilience.
Top Ghost Quotes
- 'You can't run away from who you are, but what you can do is run toward who you want to be.'
- 'Trouble is, you can't run away from yourself.'
Who should read Ghost?
'Ghost' is ideal for middle-grade readers (ages 10-12) but also offers valuable lessons for older readers. It is particularly beneficial for those interested in stories about self-discovery, resilience, and the impact of positive mentorship.
Ghost Best Reviews
- 'Ghost' is a masterful exploration of a young boy's journey to overcome his past and find his identity through running. Jason Reynolds captures the essence of youth and resilience in a compelling narrative. - The New York Times
- Jason Reynolds' 'Ghost' is a heartwarming and thought-provoking tale that offers valuable lessons on perseverance and self-discovery. - School Library Journal
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Ghost FAQs
What age is appropriate for 'Ghost' by Jason Reynolds?
'Ghost' is recommended for readers aged 10-12, making it suitable for middle-grade students.
What reading level is 'Ghost' by Jason Reynolds?
'Ghost' is generally appropriate for 5th grade and up, and it can be used as a novel study for more mature readers.
Why is 'Ghost' by Jason Reynolds a good book?
'Ghost' is praised for its teachable moments and heartwarming tale of self-discovery, making it a valuable read for young audiences.