Stuck by Jennifer Swender

How I Heard About It:

*The other day I received three books from Random House and this was one of them.  I had seen the cover and readers discussing the story, so I was excited to read.  The novel is on the shorter side so I finished it in a couple of sittings.  


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*Austin is starting yet another new school so he knows the routine.

*He likes to keep a low profile which isn't always easy to do because of his size and the fact he can't read.

*As much Austin doesn't want to draw attention to himself, that becomes somewhat difficult when he meets fellow classmates, Bertie.

*Bertie is loud, outgoing, and full of color.  The two of them form an unlikely friendship.

*She helps Austin see the true gifts within himself which allow him to realize he may have more to offer than he realized.


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*I was surprised how short this novel, but was pleased since there aren't a lot of "novels" on the shorter side which make them accessible for ALL readers.  

*Once I began reading, I was drawn to the character of Austin and so rooted for him during his journey.

*I thought it was interesting how the author incorporated a wide-range of colors into each chapter and related those colors to the plot.  

*Many times middle-grade novel deal with a female who has weight and/or academic issues so it was interesting to read about a young male having those same issues.

*Bertie was absolutely the best and everyone needs a friend like her.


Who Should Read It:
*This is the perfect novel for readers in grades three through five.  Because it is on the shorter side with sparse text, the story is accessible for all readers.  If you know of a young male who may have academic and/or self-esteem issues, this story just may be what they need.  Happy Reading!


Rating:   4 STARS out of 5 Stars