Ghost World

by Daniel Clowes
Ghost World cover
Good Books rating 3.9
Graphic Novels / Comics
Technical:
  • ID: 573
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99

Ghost World follows the misadventures of Enid and Becky, two best friends on the brink of adulthood, as they grapple with the complexities of growing up. Their sharp wit and unique perspectives on life make this a poignant and humorous exploration of friendship, identity, and the transition from youth to adulthood. /n/n The graphic novel is renowned for its raw and authentic portrayal of teenage life, blending dark humor with poignant moments. It has become a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its artistry and deep emotional resonance.

Reviews
rottenradish · 2019-05-06
unique 3.50

The novel feels like a stream of consciousness from an unlikable protagonist. The dark humour and sharp observations make it a unique reading experience.

The reviewer from rottenradish finds Ghost World to be a stream of consciousness that might not appeal to everyone due to its unlikable protagonist. However, they appreciate the dark humour and the sharp observations about society and human behaviour. The reviewer notes that the book's unique style and unfiltered perspective make it a memorable read, despite its lack of a traditional narrative structure.

Quick quotes

    Ghost World feels like a stream of consciousness from someone you would never want to meet.

    The dark humour and sharp observations make it a unique reading experience.

    The book's unique style and unfiltered perspective make it a memorable read.

Louisa Parry · Louisa Parry · 2016-01-13
insightful 4.00

The graphic novel captures the contradictions and fears of adolescence with remarkable insight. It's a raw and unflinching look at the complexities of growing up.

Louisa Parry highlights how Ghost World excels in its portrayal of teenage angst and the confusing emotions that come with it. The characters' voices are authentic, and the storytelling is both poignant and unsettling. She appreciates the book's ability to make the reader feel the discomfort and excitement of adolescence. Parry also notes the artistic brilliance of Clowes' work, which enhances the narrative's impact.

Quick quotes

    It's rightly acclaimed for its depiction of the contradictions, desires and downright scariness of adolescence.

    The characters' voices are authentic, and the storytelling is both poignant and unsettling.

    The book's ability to make the reader feel the discomfort and excitement of adolescence is remarkable.

Savage Reads · 2012-07-13
compelling 4.20

The book is brilliant with its dark humour and poignant moments. It's a bit uneven but ultimately a compelling read.

The reviewer from Savage Reads is torn about Ghost World, finding it brilliant in parts due to its dark humour and poignant moments. They appreciate the book's ability to capture the essence of teenage rebellion and the search for identity. However, they also note that the book can be uneven at times, with some parts feeling disjointed. Overall, they find it a compelling read that stays with you long after finishing.

Quick quotes

    I have to admit that I am rather torn on 'Ghost World'.

    The book was brilliant, I really enjoyed the dark humour of the characters and their interactions.

    It's a bit uneven but ultimately a compelling read.

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