Review By: Francesca Miesner
Published: 2016
Series: The Track Series #1
Genre(s): Realistic Fiction, Sports, Track, Friendship
Audience: Grades 6 to 8
Content Warnings: Domestic violence
Goodreads Link: Ghost
Publisher’s Summary:
Castle Cranshaw, known as Ghost, has been running for as long as he can remember—but never for sport. After surviving a traumatic night fleeing his violent father, running becomes both his escape and his shield. When Ghost accidentally stumbles upon the local track team tryouts and outruns seasoned athletes, he earns himself a chance to join the team. With Coach’s guidance and the support of his new teammates, Ghost begins to learn discipline, trust, and how to stop running from the things that matter most.
Review:
Ghost by Jason Reynolds is one of the reviewer’s favorite books of the past decade. Twelve year old Castle Cranshaw, known as Ghost, opens the story by revealing that he and his mother had to run from his father, who tried to kill them. They survived thanks to the kindness of Mr. Charles, who sheltered them in his store’s storage room. Since that night, Ghost has become withdrawn, introverted, and quick to anger.
One afternoon, Ghost discovers the local track team tryouts and decides to prove himself. He outruns most of the team—even without proper running shoes—and Coach offers him a place on the roster. Through the team, Ghost learns responsibility, teamwork, and how to grow beyond his pain.
This novel has captured the attention of students in the reviewer’s district for years. Every reader finds something relatable in its characters, who are diverse in gender, race, and personality. The plot is engaging, dramatic, and emotionally honest, keeping students eager to continue reading. The book ends on a minor cliffhanger, which the reviewer uses as a writing assignment: students finish the story themselves, then compare their endings with the sequel, Patina. This title is a must read for ages twelve and up.
