Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel Reading Comprehension Questions
by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Book Summary
Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel tells the story of Jerome, a twelve-year-old Black boy who is shot and killed by a white police officer, Officer Moore, after being mistaken for a threat while playing with a toy gun. As a ghost, Jerome observes the aftermath of his death, including the trial of Officer Moore and the impact on his family and community. He meets the ghost of Emmett Till, a historical figure who was also a victim of racial violence, and together they witness the struggles of other 'ghost boys' throughout history. Jerome also forms an unexpected connection with Sarah, Officer Moore's daughter, who is the only living person who can see and hear him. The graphic novel explores themes of racial injustice, police brutality, empathy, and the importance of remembering history.
Reading Comprehension Questions
Use these 19 questions to check understanding and spark deeper thinking about Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel.
1.What object did Officer Moore mistake for a real weapon, leading to Jerome's death?
2.Who is the only living person who can see and hear Jerome's ghost?
3.Why do you think Emmett Till acts as a mentor and guide for Jerome?
4.Based on Sarah's actions, what can you infer about her character development throughout the story?
5.What can you infer about the author's purpose in including the historical figure of Emmett Till?
6.Why might the author have chosen a graphic novel format for this story?
7.What is a central theme explored through Jerome's experience as a 'ghost boy'?
8.Which of the following best describes a main theme about empathy in the story?
9.What lesson does the story convey about the power of speaking out and bearing witness?
10.Compare and contrast Jerome's initial feelings about his death with his feelings by the end of the story.
11.How does the story use the character of Sarah to explore the complexities of guilt and responsibility?
12.Analyze how the graphic novel format enhances the storytelling of 'Ghost Boys' compared to a traditional novel.
13.What does the word 'acquitted' mean in the context of Officer Moore's trial?
14.In the story, what is the meaning of 'empathy' as Sarah develops it towards Jerome?
15.What does 'legacy' refer to when Emmett Till talks about the 'legacy of racial violence'?
16.When the community holds a 'vigil' for Jerome, what are they doing?
17.If you were Jerome's sister, Kim, how might you feel after Officer Moore's acquittal, and what actions might you take to seek justice or healing?
18.The story shows how different people react to a tragic event. How do you think communities can best support families who experience such profound loss and injustice?
19.The graphic novel connects Jerome's story to historical events through Emmett Till. Why is it important to learn about past injustices like Emmett Till's when trying to understand current events?
Key Vocabulary
Important words from Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel to discuss with your child.
Discussion Prompts
Great conversation starters for parents and teachers reading Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel with children.
What was your favorite part of Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel? Why did it stand out to you?
If you could talk to any character from Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel, who would you choose and what would you ask them?
How did Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel make you feel? Can you describe a moment that surprised you?
Would you recommend Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel to a friend? What would you tell them about it?
What lesson or message do you think Jewell Parker Rhodes wanted young readers to learn from this story?
Frequently Asked Questions
What reading level is Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel?
Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel by Jewell Parker Rhodes is recommended for grades 3-5 readers with an AR level of 4.8. It's an excellent choice for building reading comprehension skills at this level.
What are good comprehension questions for Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel?
ReadBuddy provides 19 carefully crafted comprehension questions for Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel, covering literal comprehension, vocabulary, and inference skills. These questions help students engage deeply with the story.
How can I use Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel for reading practice?
Read the book together or independently, then use ReadBuddy's comprehension questions to check understanding. Focus on vocabulary words, discuss character motivations, and encourage your child to make connections to their own experiences.
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