This Librarian's Quick Picks: Ghost by Jason Reynolds

Ghost
by Jason Reynolds
Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books (August 2016)
Realistic Fiction

Summary:

Running. That's all that Ghost (real name Castle Cranshaw) has ever known. But never for a track team. Nope, his game has always been ball. But when Ghost impulsively challenges an elite sprinter to a race -- and wins -- the Olympic medalist track coach sees he has something: crazy natural talent. Thing is, Ghost has something else: a lot of anger, and a past that he is trying to outrun. 

Why You'll Love It:

• One of my most important author discoveries upon my move to middle school has to be Jason Reynolds. He is AMAZING, people, and a boon to reluctant reader advisory.
• Reynolds perfectly captures both the pain and earnest longing of a young boy.
• Ghost’s narration is candid and colloquial, reminiscent of such original voices as Bud Caldwell and Joey Pigza; his level of self-understanding is both believably childlike and disarming in its perception. 

Who Should Read It:

Perfect for 5th-9th graders.



What Else You Should Read:

• The Crossover and Booked by Kwame Alexander
• A Whole New Ballgame by Phil Bildner
• STAT series by Amar'e Stoudemire