48 pages • 1 hour read
A Week in the Woods
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Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
New Hampshire • Contemporary
2002
Middle grade
10-14 years
820L
Super Short Summary
In Andrew Clements’ middle-grade novel A Week in the Woods, fifth-grader Mark Chelmsley moves to Whitson, New Hampshire, and reluctantly enrolls at Hardy Elementary, where he clashes with his classist science teacher, Mr. Bill Maxwell. Despite their initial animosity, the two are forced to work together to survive the New Hampshire wilderness, leading to personal growth and mutual understanding.
Adventurous
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
6,725 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
A Week in the Woods by Andrew Clements has garnered praise for its strong character development and engaging plot. Readers appreciate the realism and relatability of the protagonist's journey. However, some critique the pacing, noting a slow start. Overall, it is seen as a compelling read for middle school audiences.
Who Should Read A Week in the Woods?
A reader who enjoys A Week in the Woods by Andrew Clements is likely a middle-grade student who appreciates stories about personal growth and teacher-student relationships. Comparable to fans of Frindle and Because of Mr. Terupt, they value narratives set in school environments, featuring relatable characters and transformative experiences.
6,725 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mr. Maxwell
Mr. Maxwell
A tall, burly fifth-grade science teacher at Hardy Elementary who plans thorough preparations for the annual Week in the Woods camping trip. Initially harboring biases against wealthy people, he serves as an example of The Dangers of Misjudgment.
Mark’s Parents
Mark’s Parents
Extremely wealthy individuals frequently away on business trips, resulting in their distant yet influential presence in Mark's life. Mark's mother once prioritized raising him, while his father is more business-oriented and values strength and resilience.
Anya and Leon
Anya and Leon
Mark’s live-in nannies, a married couple from Russia, who provide him with care and support in the absence of his parents. Anya is nurturing and cautious, while Leon encourages Mark’s desire for independence and survival skills.
Jason
Jason
The first friend Mark makes at Hardy Elementary, who helps Mark feel comfortable and integrated into the school community. His friendship brings out Mark’s playful side and inadvertently plays a role in a pivotal event during the camping trip.
208
Novel • Fiction
New Hampshire • Contemporary
2002
Middle grade
10-14 years
820L
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