#1 in Track Series
Ghost
on Goodreads (47,312)
What’s inside...
A National Book Award Finalist for Young Peoples Literature. Ghost wants to be the fastest sprinter on his elite middle school track team, but his past is slowing him down in this first electrifying novel of a brand-new series from Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Awardwinning author Jason Reynolds.Ghost. Lu. Patina. Sunny. Four kids from wildly different backgrounds with personalities that are explosive when they clash. But they are also four kids chosen for an elite middle school track teama team that could qualify them for the Junior Olympics if they can get their acts together. They all have a lot to lose, but they also have a lot to prove, not only to each other, but to themselves. Ghost has a crazy natural talent, but no formal training. If he can stay on track, literally and figuratively, he could be the best sprinter in the city. But Ghost has been running for the wrong reasonsit all starting with running away from his father, who, when Ghost was a very little boy, chased him and his mother through their apartment, then down the street, with a loaded gun, aiming to kill. Since then, Ghost has been the one causing problemsand running away from themuntil he meets Coach, an ex-Olympic Medalist who blew his own shot at success by using drugs, and who is determined to keep other kids from blowing their shots at life.
Discussion points
How does Ghost's past experiences shape his decisions and actions in the story?
What challenges does Ghost face in his journey and how does he overcome them?
How do the relationships with his coach and teammates affect Ghost’s view of himself and his future?
What does the concept of 'team' mean in the book, and why is it important for Ghost?
How can adversity be turned into an opportunity, as seen through Ghost's experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences with those of Ghost, enhancing understanding and empathy.
Discuss the importance of support systems, like friends and mentors, in overcoming challenges, highlighting similar figures in your child’s life.
Explore the influence of past events on present actions, prompting your child to think about how their past has shaped them.
Focus on the theme of teamwork and ask your child about times when being part of a team helped them accomplish something great.
Emphasize resilience and growth through adversities, asking your child how they can apply this perspective in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Ghost, faces numerous personal challenges but learns to channel his emotions through running. This helps him cope with his past and focus on his goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use healthy outlets such as sports or arts to deal with personal struggles and build resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of mentorship
Explanation: Ghost's coach becomes a mentor who provides guidance and support, helping him navigate his troubles and realize his potential.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to seek positive role models who can guide them in their personal development and decision-making.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout the book, Ghost learns that his actions, whether good or bad, have consequences. This realization helps him grow and make better choices.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think about the outcomes of their actions and to behave responsibly.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and friendship
Explanation: As part of the track team, Ghost learns the value of collaboration and building friendships, understanding that personal success is also linked to the team's support.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by appreciating the importance of cooperation and support in group settings like school projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Ghost struggles with his identity and past, but eventually starts to accept himself, understanding that his past does not define his future.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of self-love and acceptance regardless of their background or past challenges.