43 pages • 1 hour read
Jewell Parker RhodesGhost Boys
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
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.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Ghost Boys?
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.