Jewell Parker Rhodes’ novel Ghost Boys poignantly addresses racism and police brutality through the eyes of a young African American boy. Critics praise its powerful narrative and emotional depth, making it a significant read for both youth and adults. Some, however, feel that its didactic tone and mature themes may be too intense for younger readers. Overall, it is lauded for fostering important discussions on social justice.

Readers who seek engaging, socially conscious literature similar to The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas or Wonder by R.J. Palacio will appreciate Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes. This book targets those interested in themes of racial injustice, empathy, and youth activism, particularly young adults and middle-grade readers.

Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes follows the tragic story of Jerome Rogers, a 12-year-old boy in contemporary Chicago who is shot and killed by Officer Moore while playing with a toy gun, and explores the aftermath of his death, including his ghostly interactions with other murdered Black boys and his efforts to help the living tell their stories and seek justice. The book addresses police violence against Black individuals.

Emotional / Mysterious / Unnerving / Inspirational / Contemplative

- Ghost Boys won the 2019 Walter Dean Myers Honor for Outstanding Children's Literature, which recognizes diverse authors and subjects.
- Jewell Parker Rhodes wrote Ghost Boys inspired by real-life events and historical figures, aiming to encourage young readers to engage in conversations about race and social justice.
- The novel is often used in educational settings to teach themes of empathy, racial issues, and historical context, prompting critical discussions among students and educators.

Jewell Parker Rhodes

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Ghost Boys | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Ghost Boys Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Page 80

Ghost Boys Prologue-Page 80 Summary & Analysis

Pages 85-132

Ghost Boys Pages 85-132 Summary & Analysis

Pages 133-186

Ghost Boys Pages 133-186 Summary & Analysis

Page 187-Afterword

Ghost Boys Page 187-Afterword Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Ghost Boys Character Analysis

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Themes

Ghost Boys Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Ghost Boys Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Ghost Boys Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Ghost Boys Essay Topics

Ghost Boys

Before You Read

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Review Roundup

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Book Details