"Ghost" by Jason Reynolds

This book is an exhilarating and emotionally charged novel that follows the story of Castle "Ghost" Cranshaw, a young boy with a troubled past and a natural talent for running. Living in a rough neighborhood and dealing with the trauma of his father's violent outburst, Ghost struggles to stay out of trouble. His life begins to change when he stumbles upon a track team led by Coach Brody, who sees Ghost's potential and takes him under his wing. As Ghost trains and bonds with his teammates, he learns valuable lessons about discipline, friendship, and facing his fears. This coming-of-age story highlights the power of sports, mentorship, and resilience.

Reading and Maturity Level

• Reading Level: Grades 5-8 (Ages 10-14)

• Maturity Level: The book addresses themes such as trauma, violence, and personal growth. It is suitable for middle school readers, with mature themes handled in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner.
  

Classroom Inclusion

"Ghost" provides an authentic portrayal of a young African American boy's experiences in an urban setting, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by marginalized communities. The novel's diverse characters and relatable themes make it an excellent addition to a classroom aiming to promote inclusivity and multicultural understanding. Ghost's story reflects the importance of representation in literature, offering students a chance to see themselves and others in the characters they read about.

The novel can be used to discuss broader social issues such as economic disparity, gun violence, and the impact of trauma on young people. Teachers can incorporate lessons on the importance of community support, mentorship, and positive role models in overcoming adversity. "Ghost" also provides a platform for discussing the role of sports in personal development and social change, encouraging students to think critically about the influence of extracurricular activities on their lives.

• Empathy Building: Encourages students to develop empathy for individuals from different backgrounds and to understand the personal impact of trauma and resilience.

• Critical Thinking: Promotes discussions about social issues, the importance of mentorship, and the ways individuals can overcome personal challenges.

• Cultural Awareness: Enhances students' understanding of the experiences of African American youth in urban environments and the significance of diversity in literature.

• Literary Merit: Offers opportunities for analyzing character development, narrative voice, and the use of sports as a metaphor for life's challenges and growth.