Customer Reviews

Ghost Medicine

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1 star:		(1)

 

 

Ghost Medicine Troy Stott's story. It is about friendship, growing up, choices, grief, and so much more. This is a captivating story that offers a wonderful alternative to the usual action-driven fare presented to teens. Teenagers (and adults) connect with Troy, and we understand his need for hope. Some of the content and language do not suit young children, but mature readers (10+) should be able to handle the common references to tobacco and alcohol. The story itself lacks the expected qualities of complicated twists and the anticipated romance, but that is what makes the novel so different and special. Its mood is very calm, even with the occasional violence. The author describes every scene with great detail and dialogue. There were a few chapters where those details slow down the pace and may cause the reader to drop his or her attention. But you should keep reading. As the story progresses, the characters evolve into complex and understandable people. This novel will make the reader wish for something like the ghost medicine. It helped Troy and his friends stay invisible and invincible against time, even for the briefest moment.

From the first page this book commands attention, hinting at enough adventure and drama to hook reluctant readers in such a lyrical way that the most literary of readers wouldn't be turned off either: the perfect blend of compelling characters, strong narrative voice and coming of age turmoil.

Andrew Smith's first novel indicates a great career to come, but in the meantime there is plenty to enjoy. His debut is beautifully but plainly written, and addresses difficult subjects with honesty, portraying adolescence in all of its mixed-up, complicated glory.

I don't care who you are, teen or adult, male or female, you're going to love this book. Smith's prose is clear and perfect, the characters are bigger than life but from life, and the tension in these scene's is almost unbearable. A lot of people are going to say Ghost Medicine is Cormac McCarthy for teens, and the comparison is an apt one, but this book is too good and too original to be compared to anyone. I especially recommend this for the reluctant teen reader in your life; it will change their minds about what a book can do. And the great part is that, once they've finished--and they'll zip through it--you'll have the pleasure of reading it yourself. Can't say enough.

I purchased the book for a friend, but he received it from someone else first. So I kept and read the book, and I am so happy I did. It was an epic tale with characters where attachment is inevitable. Read it very quickly because I never wanted to put the book down! I am not a habitual reader, so it takes a good book to keep my attention. Loved this book and would recommend to anyone and everyone.

Just finished Ghost Medicine. Actually, read it until finished in bed last night. Blurry-eyed and all - I Loved It. The writing is beautiful to read. The story has a very visual flow to it and you get to know the characters in an intimate way. If I don't like a book I can't force myself to read it. This one came easy. I didn't want to stop. I think this is a story for both genders and most ages. I definitely recommend Ghost Medicine!

It is hard to believe that Ghost Medicine is Andrew Smith's first novel. His narrative style is that of a seasoned writer and appeals to readers of all ages. While teenage boys might identify more with Troy and his pals, this book is age and gender neutral, entertaining readers with Smith's descriptions of the rugged terrain of the setting and the pensive musings of the main character as he struggles to find his place in his family, with his friends, and in life in general. Part Stand by Me, part A River Runs Through It, Smith has taken the standard coming-of-age story and made it relative and gripping for all readers.

Outstanding book for adults but especially for young adults. Troy Stotts is a sixteen year old who is searching for his place following the death of his mother. He and three best friends embark on a wild and fatal adventure. It reminds me of Stand By Me, and when Troy is alone in the forest, it is reminiscent of Hemingway's Big Two-hearted River. It reminded me of what it was like when I was young and every event was so huge and monumental. Very cool book.

I've always been drawn to America's rugged cowboy culture. Having grown up in the lowlands by the North Sea, the American West seemed worlds away. It was. And it still is. But through Ghost Medicine, I feel I have lived it. Smith brings that experience to life in such a rich, sensory and even seductive way, that I felt I was riding a horse along with Troy, Gabe and Tommy.

I was happy Smith prepared us for what was to come (sort of), because it would have broken my heart otherwise.

A great read....

Just a great book no matter what your age is. Geared towards the teenage crowd but thoroughly enjoyed it as an adult. Looking forward to future titles by the author.

Andrew Smith's Ghost Medicine chronicles the life of Troy and his best friends through the summer before his junior year of high school. Boys especially will identify with the characters and situations they encounter, but it is a book everyone will enjoy from cover to cover. I read glued to the pages from beginning to end. Andrew wrote completely free spirited leading to unanticipated events and resolutions throughout the story. Not only would I recommend this book to teens, the target group, but also to those who enjoy reading. You will laugh. You will cry. And you will feel as though you know those boys.