Play Book Tag discussion

Ghost by Jason Reynolds - 4 stars - My Review

I first became aware of this book while watching Public Broadcasting System’s Great American Read. It is a short middle grade novel about a black youth who joins a track team. Castle Cranshaw, nicknamed “Ghost,” is the narrator of his own story. Castle is a likeable character. Though he experiences family trauma, resulting in his father going to prison, and has committed a crime himself, the reader can tell he is sensitive and has a conscience. He wants to do the right thing but does not always succeed. The track coach becomes a positive role model and the track team bonds over shared experiences. It portrays how sports can become a motivational force in a young person’s life. It has a ring of authenticity. I listened to the audio book, read by Guy Lockard. He does an excellent job of making it seem that Castle is speaking directly to the listener. Recommended for ages twelve and up.