Book Review: Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes (Why KS3 Students Should Read This Powerful Story)
Some books stay with you long after you finish the last page…and Ghost Boys is one of them. It’s an emotional, thought-provoking story that tackles difficult topics like prejudice, injustice and courage, in a way that KS3 students can understand and connect with.
If you’re in Year 7, 8 or 9, this is a book that’ll make you think, feel, and want to talk about it afterwards, and that’s exactly what great stories should do.
Ghost Boys is a story about injustice, memory, and the choices that shape us.
✅ What Is Ghost Boys About?
Ghost Boys follows Jerome, a 12-year-old Black boy who is shot by a police officer while playing with a toy gun. The story is told from Jerome’s perspective after his death, as he watches the world carry on without him.
Along the way, Jerome meets the ghost of Emmett Till, a real historical figure who was murdered in 1955, and together they reflect on racism, violence and how history keeps repeating itself.
✅ Why KS3 Students Will Love It
It’s emotional, but accessible: The story deals with serious issues in a way that’s clear, moving and age-appropriate.
It makes you think: It’s a brilliant book for developing empathy and understanding other people’s experiences.
The characters are memorable: Jerome’s voice is honest, sad and brave, and Sarah, the police officer’s daughter, plays an important part in the story too.
It links past and present: Readers learn about real history while connecting it to modern-day events.
✅ Favourite Quote
“Only the living can make the world better. Live and make it better.”
A simple but powerful message about standing up, speaking out and being kind.
✅ Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. It’s the kind of book every KS3 student should read at some point. It’s thought-provoking, important, and brilliantly written, and it’ll leave you with plenty to think about.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Year 7, 8 or 9 and looking for a meaningful, moving story, Ghost Boys should be on your reading list. And if you’d like to get better at understanding themes, writing thoughtful book reviews or exploring characters in depth, I’d be happy to help.
I have a limited number of tutoring slots available both online and in-person across Stockport, South Manchester and surrounding areas. Contact me today for a private tutoring quote, whether it’s for reading comprehension, writing confidence or English skills.
Visit my Contact page to get in touch.