Ghost

Jason Reynolds is even better at the MG level! Loved Castle/Ghost, his grey-area character nuances, and the diversity of supporting characters (getting their own books soon, hopefully). Audio was excellent and gave distinct voices to the many characters, especially nailing Ghost (“I could feel the altercationess rising” is one of my all time favorite lines). I have known so many of these characters in real life, and I know kids will strongly embrace this realistic reflection of their realities.

After I heard Jason Reynolds speak at a breakfast at BookExpo this year, I couldn't wait to read one of his books. It turns out I could wait because I had to wait: all his books were checked out at the library. Wow. I had no idea he was such a popular author.

Finally, I was able to check out Ghost on audio, and it was like hearing Reynolds speak. I love the authenticity of his characters. They have troubles, they do the wrong thing, they accept the consequences, they help each other, they jab at the world with humor...brave, heroic, weak, foolish, struggling, epic.

I loved hearing this story from a black community of a boy who starts running when his dad points a gun at him and who goes on to meet a strong track coach who gently but firmly shapes his life.

Jason Reynolds may be my new favorite author.