Ghost Medicine

 Smith, A (2008) Ghost Medicine. New York, NY: Feiwel & Friends.
Ghost Medicine is a fiction with mystery and coming of age story about a boy named Troy who lives on a ranch.  His mother dies and he lives alone with his father.  His best friends are his neighbors one named Gabe whose father is a rich rancher and the other Tom who works at the Benavidez Ranch. Troy has always been in love with Luz Benavidez who is the sister of Gabe and they start to be more than friends.  There is a bullying in town named Chase who is the son of the Sheriff in town.  Chase and Troy get in a fight and Tom is the strong one who comes to his defense. They are many more episodes of tension between the boys and not to give the whole story away three boys die on one fatal night as the boys are out camping.  The story deals with death and dying, love or a girl, friendships that are strong, and caring for others. This is the best book that I have read in a while.  These boys are the best of friends who have to deal with tragedy. Young adults will be engrossed in this book because it is relatable and heartwarming with strong characters.  You can just see the imagery that is projected throughout the story as if you are part of the scenery.  Love, Love, Loved this book!!! I will read more books by Andrew Smith because they are believable and well told. Other books by this author are 100 Sideways Miles, Stand Off and Winger.