Raina Telgemeier's Ghosts receives praise for its vibrant illustrations and heartfelt exploration of themes like family, illness, and cultural heritage. However, some criticize it for a simplified portrayal of complex subjects. Overall, the graphic novel is commended for its emotional depth and accessibility to young readers, despite some controversy.

Readers who would enjoy Raina Telgemeier's Ghosts are typically middle-grade students who appreciate graphic novels with heartfelt storytelling. Fans of Telgemeier’s other works, like Smile and Sisters, or those who enjoyed Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, will find Ghosts equally engaging.

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier follows Cat and her younger sister, Maya, as they move to Bahía de la Luna in hopes that the climate will help Maya's cystic fibrosis. There, they meet Carlos, who introduces them to the town's ghostly heritage. Cat’s initial fear of the spirits transforms as she reconnects with her Mexican heritage and strengthens her bond with Maya. Issues surrounding illness and death are central to the story.

Raina Telgemeier

Middle grade

Graphic Novel/Book

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Ghosts reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Ghosts | SuperSummary

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Ghosts and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Ghosts Summary and Study Guide

Background

Ghosts Background

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section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “August”

Part 1 Ghosts Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “September” - Part 3: “October”

Parts 2-3

Ghosts Parts 2-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Late October”

Part 4 Ghosts Part 4 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Ghosts Character Analysis

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Themes

Ghosts Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Ghosts Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Ghosts Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Ghosts Essay Topics

Ghosts: A Graphic Novel

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Ghosts?

Reading Age

Book Details