57 pages • 1 hour read
Crash
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Pennsylvania • 1990s
1996
Middle grade
9-12 years
560L
Super Short Summary
Crash by Jerry Spinelli follows seventh-grade athlete Crash Coogan, who transitions from a bully to becoming best friends with Penn Webb, a former victim. Through various social and family challenges, including his involvement in sports and his relationship with his sister Abby, Crash learns the value of friendship and empathy. Triggering topics include bullying and a family member's stroke.
Humorous
Heartwarming
Emotional
Adventurous
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
14,490 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jerry Spinelli's Crash paints a poignant portrait of middle school life, vividly exploring themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth. Critics praise Spinelli's relatable characters and humorous writing style. Some find the plot predictable and feel secondary characters lack depth. However, fans appreciate the book's heartfelt messages and engaging narrative.
Who Should Read Crash?
Readers who delight in realistic middle-grade fiction, particularly those who appreciated novels like Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli, will be captivated by Crash. Themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth stand at the center, making it a compelling read for ages 8-12.
14,490 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
176
Novel • Fiction
Pennsylvania • 1990s
1996
Middle grade
9-12 years
560L
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