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3.9 AVERAGE
3.9 AVERAGE
This was one of my favorite books that I read for school in middle school. I remember both loving it and being gutted by it. This was published in 1993 and there are a couple moments where you can tell it's dated (particularly in regards to the ablest language), but the overall themes still hold up.
I think I love this book even more each time I read it. Such a classic, yet heartbreaking, story about the power of friendship.
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Terminal illness, Kidnapping
Moderate: Murder
Again, creative and clever use of allusions by this author, yet approachable for struggling readers.
This book pulled at my heart strings, connecting me to the main characters and their plight. The story was childish at times while mature at others, in my opinion, an accurate reflection of the young adult.
This would pair well with Wonder...for a slightly more mature audience perhaps (compare/contrast). Great vocabulary!
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Death, Death of parent
Moderate: Child abuse, Medical content, Kidnapping
This book, unlike the other book I finished today, made me feel deeply. I loved the unique friendship and the interesting characters.
I read reviews talking about the inappropriate insults for learning and physically disabled. It is jarring- but it was written in the early 90’s and that language was used by characters who would, indeed, speak in that manner.
What mattered to me was the depiction of the characters. They were well-rounded and real and interesting. I really did love the story and will recommend it highly to my students.
Note: I listened to the audiobook. It was not the best narration ever and for that reason, I would advise the book version.
I read reviews talking about the inappropriate insults for learning and physically disabled. It is jarring- but it was written in the early 90’s and that language was used by characters who would, indeed, speak in that manner.
What mattered to me was the depiction of the characters. They were well-rounded and real and interesting. I really did love the story and will recommend it highly to my students.
Note: I listened to the audiobook. It was not the best narration ever and for that reason, I would advise the book version.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I've been using this roughly 5th grade level book in teaching some Ugandan secondary school students.