A review by slichto3
Loser by Jerry Spinelli

3.0

This is a very sweet and very solid book - it just didn't really thrill me. It's about a kid named Zinkoff who is about as happy-go-lucky as you can be. He is relentlessly optimistic and happy about the world. He appreciates life and fun stuff, and doesn't get even a tad bothered by negative stuff. Even though that negative stuff really comes at him, because Zinkoff is far from perfect. He has terrible handwriting and is an awful athlete. He is always cheerful in a way that annoys others, and he even enjoys things that others hate - like school! So Zinkoff is not at all popular among his peers. That makes the story kind of sad. Every other kid is kind of a jerk to him. But still, Zinkoff keeps his chin up and shows himself to be a good person regardless.

It's a sweet look at a sweet kid growing up. It also has a great message about enjoying what you have, and being the best you can be, regardless of the standards other people set for you and the hate others throw your way. Loser is an enjoyable and valuable book to read. It's just not amazing. Which is fine, I'd still recommend it. You'll have a good time and gain a strong appreciation for life if you give this book a try.