Ghost Rider: Travels on the Healing Road is a memoir by the late Neil Peart, drummer and primary lyricist for the Canadian rock band Rush. Published in 2002, the book chronicles Peart’s extensive motorcycle journey across North America following immense personal tragedy: the deaths of his daughter, Selena, and wife, Jackie, within a year of each other. The title alludes both to his emotional state during this period and his chosen mode of transportation a BMW motorcycle. He covered over 55,000 miles, seeking solace and a path towards healing through the solitude of the open road and the varied landscapes he encountered.
The work provides a profound insight into the grieving process and the complexities of human resilience. Peart’s introspective narrative explores themes of loss, grief, healing, and the search for meaning in life. It resonated deeply with readers, particularly those who had experienced personal loss, and established itself as a powerful testament to the human spirit’s capacity for recovery. The book also offers a glimpse into the mind of a renowned artist, revealing the vulnerability behind the public persona and showcasing Peart’s introspective and articulate writing style.