Commentary On Ghost Boy By Martin Pistorius

Ghost Boy is the journey of Martin Pistorius through his struggles and battles of being a misdiagnosed quadriplegic. At the age of 12 he was a normal boy until he fell ill, became paralyzed, and was fully dependant on his parents and caretakers. Little did they know, Martin was fully aware of life around him. His mother and other family members faced troubles dealing with the thought that Martin would never be the same. Although he couldn’t move or communicate, small gestures led one of his care takers to believing he was still mentally “alive” even though he was diagnosed of not being able to return to his normal self when he first became sick. His parents, his brother David, and his sister Kim took him to be assessed and immediately started to help and encourage his

communication through a computer system after he showed he still understood. He had been living life unable to respond until he was almost 20. Martin explains his years of learning and the slow recovery of movement in his limbs. He also tells stories of life as not being recognized as functional, earning his first job, meeting new friends, abuse from caretakers, and even meeting his wife. Furthermore, he tells about events in his life that were exciting and vivid to him that wouldn’t be to anyone else because he was so used to routines. Every day for years, everything was done for him, and as the book continues, he slowly comes out of his shell and starts his own life.

I wasn’t able to relate very well to any of the characters because it is hard to imagine what life would be like having everyone do everything for you. It’s mind boggling to picture yourself living life without any way to interact with anyone and having no way to convince people that believe you aren’t capable, that you are. I’ve never felt trapped inside my own body or useless like Martin did. Furthermore, I couldn’t understand how Martin’s parents or siblings felt on a personal level because I’ve never had to watch any of my family members deteriorate into unresponsiveness.

I enjoyed watching Martin’s life unfold and observing his little and major milestones.

Even though Martin’s first time speaking with his communication device was memorable, my favorite part of the book was when he proposed to his wife in a hot air balloon because it shows that there is a person in the world for everyone and some people can look past what’s on the outside and realize who the person really is on the inside. My least favorite part of the book was reading about how some of the caregivers treated Martin. They spoke to him as if he had no feelings along with unruly physical abuse. I don’t think I would change anything about the book because I enjoyed reading about Martin overcoming his struggles.

I would undoubtedly recommend this book to someone, because it teaches the important lesson that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover and that you shouldn’t underestimate someone’s capabilities based on their appearance. I would recommend Ghost Boy to a person who appreciates stories about people who do not lose hope, prove people who don’t believe in them wrong, and overcoming unthinkable struggles. A person who likes stories with moral would definitely admire the journey of Martin

Pistorius.