Bucking the Sarge
Bucking the Sarge
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004
Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Flint, Michigan • Contemporary
2004
YA
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
Bucking the Sarge by Christopher Paul Curtis follows fifteen-year-old Luther T. Farrell as he navigates life under the control of his corrupt, slumlord mother, known as the Sarge, in Flint, Michigan. Luther aspires to escape his difficult circumstances by saving for college and winning the science fair, but he faces numerous moral dilemmas and systemic challenges along the way.
Humorous
Gritty
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
1,799 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Bucking the Sarge by Christopher Paul Curtis has been praised for its compelling characters and thoughtful exploration of social issues. Reviewers appreciate its humor and insightful portrayal of familial challenges. Some critics, however, find the pacing slow at times. Overall, it's commended for engaging storytelling and emotional depth.
Who Should Read Bucking the Sarge?
A reader who enjoys Bucking the Sarge by Christopher Paul Curtis is typically a young adult interested in themes of resilience, humor, and social justice. Fans of The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by the same author or Holes by Louis Sachar will find this book engaging and thought-provoking.
1,799 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Novel • Fiction
Flint, Michigan • Contemporary
2004
YA
10-14 years
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