book

GHOST

Name: GHOST
Author: Jason Reynolds

Jason Reynolds

A newly found talent for running track gives a troubled boy the outlet he needs. (Ages 10 to 13)

Ages 11+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to about age 11+ because of domestic violence, a frightening gun incident, bullying, poverty, grief, and occasional strong emotions, though the language and sexual content are limited. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age11+

Strongest cautions

Frightening scenes3/5
Violence3/5
Alcohol or drugs2/5

Strongest positives

Courage & resilience4/5
Diverse representation4/5
Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5

Why this rating?

Specific sneakers and Ghost’s desire for them appear in the story, but brands are incidental to his identity and the book does not pressure children to buy.

Graphic injury1/5

Why this rating?

Injuries and violence are present, but graphic blood or wound detail is minimal.

Strong language2/5

Why this rating?

Some mild profanity, insults, and hostile language appear, reflecting the characters' circumstances and conflicts.

Romance1/5

Why this rating?

There is little, if any, romance; the story focuses primarily on friendship, family, mentorship, and athletics.

Frightening scenes3/5

Why this rating?

Ghost’s memories of a shooting, domestic violence, family danger, bullying, and tense confrontations may be frightening, though the danger is not constant.

Alcohol or drugs2/5

Why this rating?

Smoking and references to substance use may occur in the surrounding adult or neighborhood environment, without being the book's focus.

Violence3/5

Why this rating?

Includes past domestic violence, a gun-related incident, fights, bullying, and aggressive behavior; violence is consequential rather than celebratory.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5

Why this rating?

The protagonist shows courage by confronting painful memories, accepting guidance, controlling impulses, and pursuing a difficult goal.

Creativity & curiosity2/5

Why this rating?

The voice, humor, vivid observations, and inventive self-expression encourage imagination, while problem-solving is mainly emotional and practical.

Diverse representation4/5

Why this rating?

Centers a Black boy and includes varied urban families, coaches, teammates, and communities portrayed with individuality and agency.

Educational value2/5

Why this rating?

Offers insight into track training, discipline, trauma, poverty, and emotional self-management, though it is primarily a literary story.

Kindness & empathy3/5

Why this rating?

Mentorship, friendship, empathy, and practical support are important forces helping the protagonist change.

Positive messages4/5

Why this rating?

Strongly emphasizes accountability, perseverance, accepting help, managing anger, and turning talent and hardship toward healthier choices.

Good role models4/5

Why this rating?

The coach and supportive adults model patience and accountability; the protagonist makes mistakes but grows through responsibility and effort.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
Which choice in GHOST would you have made differently, and why?
Who changed the most in GHOST, and what caused that change?

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