A review by that_bookworm_guy
Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes

emotional informative mysterious sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book is incredible and heart-breaking, because although the story of 12 year old Jerome is fiction, it isn't for many black boys. 

The story is told between 2 time periods, during Jerome's life and after, when he is walking around with other ghost boys. As he watches as life continue around him. 

Jerome meets another ghost boy, Emmett, who is a real boy who was killed during the 1950's. We hear his story and see that although 60+ years have passed, the same thing is still happening. Although this book is set in the US, racial injustice isn't just limited to there. This story is sadly true for other countries. 

This book is middle-grade and one that will hopefully be read by parents, educators as well as children. I really like the fact that it had questions at the end of the book that can be used as a discussion point for kids. 

'Only the living can make the world better. Live and make it better. Don't let me (or anyone else) Tell this tale again.' 
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