Ghost Boys

This is a gripping story by Jewell Parker Rhodes, dealing with the complexities of racism, prejudice and bullying. Most suitable for children aged 11-15, the book brings to the surface some hard but real-world experiences faced by generations of young people.

This important story is about a 12-year-old boy called Jerome, who is killed by a policeman mistaking his toy gun for a real one. In the narrative, Jerome’s ghost lives on to watch the aftermath of the events – including the pain of his grieving family and the police officer’s hearing. Jerome begins to encounter other ghost boys, and makes a connection with their stories.

Hope is offered in the form of the police officer’s daughter, Sarah, who although alive can still interact with the ghost of Jerome. Sarah seeks empathy and hard truths, and provides a thread of light and hope through the story. Sarah represents a new generation of children looking for change in the status quo when it comes to race and equality, and perhaps young readers today will find inspiration or connection with this character amid a heavy but important storyline.

Highly recommended for KS3 readers!