Ghost Town - Tom Perrotta

 Ghost Town - Tom Perrotta

Pub. Date: April 28, 2026

She read

Successful author, the man once known as Jimmy Perrini, reflects on his pre-high school life in 1974 New Jersey. After his mother’s death, he feels lost and alienated from life, finding some solace in two relationships.  One is with a ne’er-do-well boy who spends his time smoking weed and driving around in his fast car, despite being underage. The other is with an older, bright girl from a dysfunctional family who introduces him to a Ouija board. 

Perrotta’s novel evokes a wide range of emotions.  It is nostalgic, wistful, poignant, melancholic, and hopeful, as well as a bit spiritual. Beautifully written, it resonates with anyone who has reminisced about their teenage self.

Having lived through the 70s in New Jersey, the author captures that era and environment realistically. I thoroughly enjoyed all the familiar locales mentioned by name in this narrative. This haunting story will linger in my mind for quite some time.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Scribner for the DRC.

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