67 pages • 2 hours read
Ghost
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Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
2016
Middle grade
10-14 years
730L
Super Short Summary
Ghost by Jason Reynolds follows Castle Crenshaw, a young man struggling with childhood trauma who discovers a sense of belonging and purpose after joining the Defenders track team. Through the support of his coach and teammates, Castle learns to confront his past and finds hope for a better future. The book addresses themes of teamwork, overcoming childhood trauma, and self-discovery. The book discusses domestic violence.
Inspirational
Emotional
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
52,734 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ghost by Jason Reynolds is commended for its relatable characters and poignant exploration of urban youth challenges. Reviewers praise Reynolds's accessible writing and realistic portrayal of struggle and triumph. Some critics note predictable plot elements, but overall, it's an engaging read that resonates with young audiences.
Who Should Read Ghost?
Readers who would enjoy Jason Reynolds' Ghost are typically young adults who appreciate contemporary fiction with strong, relatable characters facing real-life challenges. Similar to fans of The Crossover by Kwame Alexander, these readers often enjoy themes of personal growth, resilience, and sports as a backdrop for deeper emotional truths.
52,734 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Otis Brodie (Coach)
Otis Brodie (Coach)
Coach Otis Brodie is Castle’s mentor and the track coach in *Ghost*. Having experienced a similar upbringing to Castle, he serves as a father figure and guides Castle toward healing and personal growth through running.
Lu
Lu
Lu is one of Castle's teammates on the track team in *Ghost*. Initially perceived as arrogant, Lu proves to be an accepting and competitive teammate. Despite his confident exterior, Lu deals with insecurities regarding his albinism.
Sunny
Sunny
Sunny is another teammate of Castle's in *Ghost*. Coming from a wealthy background, he is a distance runner motivated by the expectations of his father. Sunny's humble and supportive nature challenges Castle's assumptions about wealth and privilege.
Patty
Patty
Patty is the only female newbie in Castle's track team in *Ghost*. An adopted sprinter, she runs because her biological mother, who lost her legs to diabetes, cannot. Patty is compassionate and supportive, helping Castle regain his confidence after setbacks.
208
Novel • Fiction
2016
Middle grade
10-14 years
730L
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