Ghost Train | Topics for Discussion & Projects

Ghost Train Topics for Discussion

1. Is the inclusion of Remi and Niya's interest in one another's bodies appropriate for a novel for young readers? Is it realistic?

2. Why does Mowry contrast Remi's idea of poverty with that of Remi's Oakland classmates?

3. One reason Niya likes Remi is, as she says to him, "You don't figure girls are stupid." Is this a problem among people her age? If so, why? What could be done to change it?

4. Mowry includes words such as "shit" and "nigger" in Ghost Train. Are these words appropriate for readings intended for twelve and thirteen-year-olds?

5. Niya declares, "White folks can always afford to move where it's safe." Why would Niya make such blanket statements about whites?

6. How big of an issue is race in Ghost Train? Does it affect any of the action?