Rollercoasters: Ghost Boys

Rollercoasters: Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes is a poignant exploration of grief, injustice, and the quest for understanding through the eyes of a young boy. At the heart of the story is 12-year-old Jerome, who is tragically shot by a police officer who misidentifies his toy gun as a real threat. As a ghost, Jerome witnesses the profound sorrow of his family and grapples with the reality of his existence.

The Plot

As he navigates the afterlife, Jerome encounters other ghost boys, each with their own tragic narratives linked by themes of racism and societal injustice. Through their collective experiences, he learns about the circumstances that have tethered them to the earthly realm and discovers the potential for change through their stories. The novel illuminates the harsh realities of prejudice and discrimination while fostering conversations on social justice.

Themes

• Racism and Injustice: The narrative delves deep into the impact of systemic racism on young lives.
• Grief and Loss: Jerome's family serves as a lens through which readers can understand the deep scars of loss.
• Hope and Change: The stories of the ghost boys ultimately serve as a call to action for readers to inspire change.

Literary Merit

Rhodes' writing is both lyrical and accessible, making complex themes approachable for a younger audience. The emotional depth and sensitivity with which she addresses these serious topics set Ghost Boys apart as a vital contribution to contemporary literature for young readers. Fans of Rhodes' other works, such as Black Enough, will find a similar blend of heart and urgency in this compelling tale.