Reviews

Loser by Jerry Spinelli

merrifield's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

dee_farbz's review against another edition

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2.0

It felt like there was going to be something bigger at the end. He wasn't really a hero and he continued to be bullied. No one tried to understand Donald and his parents were still completely blind to the issues going on in his life. Definitely not my favorite book.

nonidude's review against another edition

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emotional funny inspiring sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.25

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thereaderintherye's review against another edition

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emotional slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.0

deepfreezebatman's review against another edition

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3.0

Realistic middle grade books are not really my genre, and this story fell flat for me. It's funny, heartwarming, and interesting to see how Zinkoff evolves and grows over 6 years.. but overall it just wasn't that memorable to me.

abrillylovesyou's review against another edition

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funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

amyreadsbooks917's review against another edition

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3.0

This story is definitely a Spinelli story if you've ever read his books before. Quirky solitary boy, plot driven by theme and character development, and vague slightly thin ending. I like plot to be driven by action, so I don't think I'm ever going to fall in love with his stories where following a character's subtle change and redemption is the main premise.

That being said, this is a really great book to facilitate discussion, especially about differences, attitudes, and kindness. Parts of the book had me (and my class) gasping and laughing and anxious to read more, so it was definitely a solid read.

tabatha_shipley's review against another edition

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4.0

What I Did Like:
Some of the people this child encounters give me hope. It’s a good reminder how to treat other people (and how not to) even on a bad day or when someone makes a mistake.
The entire basement scene was brilliant! It’s relatable to anyone who’s been scared of something and it’s just a great show of who this kid is deep down. Absolutely amazing. This part will stay with me.
I adore this kid. He’s well written, flawed, personable, and funny. I want only good things for him and I’ve known dozens of kids just like him. I’d read 10 books starring him.

Who Should Read This One:
Contemporary middle grade fans who like relatable stories about being a kid! This is similar to Ramona or a slightly older Junior B Jones.

My Rating: 4 Stars
Excellent story! Perfect for fans of the genre.

For Full Review: https://tabathashipleybooks.com/2023/02/13/2023-book-review-loser/

wiseowl33's review against another edition

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3.0

The story of Donald Zinkoff is not unfamiliar... there are far too many Zinkoff's. But in this story, I just wanted him to reach a higher level. To find a bit more acceptance. Too much mother in me? It just was a bit sad to me. Not in a pleasing way.

ethan_bluestone's review against another edition

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funny hopeful inspiring fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5