Meet Ghost, a kid with a troubled past who learned to run when his drunk father tried to shoot his mother and him. Ghost doesn't want to join a team. He enjoys reading about world record setters and eating sunflower seeds from Mr. Charles's store. He's bullied by Brandon because he's poor and can't afford clothes that fit. His mother is a hospital cafeteria worker trying to make ends meet. While at the track, Ghost reveals his secret before an audience in an attempt to prove a point to someone he deems a "show-off." He's super fast. Now, Ghost finds himself a part of the city track team, the Defenders, and on a mission not to get into any more trouble at school. His wardrobe is inferior, his training is inferior, his home is inferior. But, his running . . . Let's just say he's got skills.
Author Jason Reynolds brings us a beautiful story of overcoming obstacles, especially those created by ourselves. Read about this award-winning author here. Ghost is the 2016 National Book Award Finalist.
Personal Reflections:
This book is full of great lessons, believable characters, action, and life lessons. I enjoyed it immensely and immediately picked up the sequel, Patina, and read it. I am not an athletic person by any means, but I still found great joy in this novel. Jason Reynolds has a beautiful way with words and tells a beautiful story of growing up and discovering who you really are. A quick but delightful book! Check it out in your library today!
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