Character Clues
What is Ghost's real name?
Castle Cranshaw
What does Ghost do that almost gets him kicked off the team?
He steals shoes from a store.
What does running symbolize for Ghost?
Escaping pain and finding freedom.
What point of view is Ghost written?
First person
What does Coach Brody do for a living?
He's a cabdriver.
What motivates Ghost to start running?
He's trying to get away from his past.
What does Coach do after learning Ghost stole the shoes?
What do the sunflower seeds represent?
Comfort and memories about spending time with his dad
What is the tone of Ghost's narration?
Casual, honest, humorous, emotional
How would you describe Lu?
Overly confident/Albino
What traumatic event shaped Ghost's childhood?
His dad tried to shoot him and his mom.
What team does Ghost join?
The Defenders Track Team
How does the track uniform symbolize change for Ghost?
A fresh start and a new identity
How does Jason Reynolds use flashbacks in the novel?
To reveal Ghost's backstory and build empathy
Ghost says he's always had "a lot of scream inside". What does this mean?
It shows his internal pain and trauma and his struggle to be heard.
What does Patty have in common with Ghost that helps them connect?
They've both experienced personal loss and struggle.
What happens at the first track meet that shows Ghost's growth (think of a theme)?
He stays focused and shows determination.
What is a central theme of Ghost? (Think about the debate topics from Wednesday.)
1. Perseverance
2. Identity
3. Trust
4. Overcoming fear
Why does Reynolds start the novel with a fight scene?
To immediately show Ghost's inner conflict and set the tone
Otis Brody
How does Ghost's view of Coach change throughout the novel (how does Ghost see Coach)?
From strict stranger to mentor/father figure.
Being benched and having to earn back trust.
Explain how the author uses the idea of "defense"/"Defenders" team name as a metaphor in the story.
The team is defending their right to change and be seen for who they really are.
How does Jason Reynolds blend serious issues with humor?
Through Ghost's voice and realistic thoughts - relatable
What does Coach do that proves he believes in Ghost?
He gives Ghost another chance after the shoe theft and shows patience.