Ryan Smithson’s Ghosts of War: The True Story of a 19-Year-Old GI is an extraordinary book that offers a deeply personal perspective on the realities of war. Written as a memoir, this powerful story recounts Smithson’s experiences as a young soldier in Afghanistan and the lasting impact it had on his life.
If you’re looking for a book that combines raw emotion, vivid storytelling, and important life lessons, Ghosts of War is an excellent choice for your classroom library.
The Story of a 19-Year-Old GI
Ryan Smithson was just 19 years old when he joined the Army Reserves after high school and was deployed to Afghanistan. Unlike many war stories, this memoir doesn’t focus solely on combat. Instead, Smithson sheds light on the day-to-day experiences of a young soldier tasked with building and repairing roads and buildings. His story offers a heartwarming yet sobering view of the war, particularly the innocent civilians caught in its wake.
A Unique Structure: Red, White, and Blue Phases
The book is cleverly divided into three phases—Red, White, and Blue—each representing a different stage of Smithson’s journey:
- Red Phase: This section focuses on his training and preparation for deployment, giving readers a glimpse into the physical and emotional challenges of becoming a soldier.
- White Phase: Here, Smithson recounts his time in Afghanistan, putting his training into action while navigating the complexities of war.
- Blue Phase: The final section deals with the aftermath of his deployment, including his struggles with PTSD and reintegration into civilian life. Smithson’s candid discussion of triggers, like the sound of a popping balloon, provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of war.
Why It Belongs in Your Classroom
Ghosts of War is an ideal choice for middle and high school readers. Its vivid and accessible writing style makes it perfect for grades 7 and up as an independent read, while its thought-provoking content lends itself well to class discussions in grades 5 and higher when read aloud.
The memoir touches on important topics such as resilience, sacrifice, and the mental toll of war. These themes provide rich opportunities for classroom discussions and cross-curricular connections, particularly with social studies or history units on modern conflicts.
A Note on Sensitivity
While Ghosts of War is not gratuitously graphic, it does deal with mature themes, including PTSD, war trauma, and the hardships faced by soldiers and civilians. Educators should be prepared to navigate these topics thoughtfully and provide a safe space for students to process the material.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Ghosts of War is a must-read for both students and educators. Its heartfelt storytelling and honest portrayal of the human side of war make it a book that resonates long after you’ve finished reading. Whether you’re adding it to your classroom library, using it for a read-aloud, or assigning it for independent study, this memoir is sure to spark meaningful conversations and inspire empathy among your students.
For me, this book earns a well-deserved 5/5 stars.