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40 pages 1 hour read

Falling Over Sideways

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Jordan Sonnenblick

Falling Over Sideways

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

Falling Over Sideways by Jordan Sonnenblick follows 14-year-old Claire Goldsmith as she navigates the challenges of her eighth-grade year, including bullying, dance school setbacks, and the emotional turmoil after her father suffers a stroke. Claire's journey is one of personal growth, resilience, and learning to support her father through his rehabilitation while finding strength and hope in the process. The novel includes themes of trauma and depression.

Emotional

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

6,760 ratings

71%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Falling Over Sideways by Jordan Sonnenblick receives praise for its authentic voice and relatable adolescent struggles, vividly capturing the protagonist's emotional journey. Critics commend its humor and heartfelt moments, but some feel secondary characters lack depth. Overall, it's an engaging and poignant read for both teens and adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Falling Over Sideways?

A reader who would enjoy Falling Over Sideways by Jordan Sonnenblick is typically a middle-grade student (ages 10-14) who appreciates realistic fiction that deals with family dynamics, personal growth, and humor. This novel would appeal to fans of R.J. Palacio’s Wonder and Rebecca Stead’s When You Reach Me due to its engaging narrative and relatable characters.

4.3

6,760 ratings

71%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Claire Goldsmith

A middle school student navigating the challenges of adolescence, friendships, and her family's struggles while striving for personal growth and balance.

Claire's father, a jovial writer of young adult novels, whose life is significantly altered following a serious health event.

The pragmatic and supportive mother of Claire and Matthew, who maintains strength for her family during difficult times.

Claire's seemingly perfect older brother, who experiences his own challenges and emotional growth alongside his family.

Claire's former best friend turned adversary, who plays a complex role in her school life and personal development.

A tough schoolmate of Claire's who initially exhibits antagonistic behavior but has deeper motivations and complexities.

A popular and fashionable girl at school known for her influence and manipulation of social dynamics.

Claire's best friends from dance school, who advance to higher-level classes while maintaining their bond with her.

Claire's intelligent yet shy best friend in middle school, who supports Claire in subtle ways during challenging situations.

A strict and old-fashioned science teacher, known for her high expectations and personal challenges that impact her teaching style.

A quiet student who demonstrates traits often associated with autism, contributing to unique social interactions at school.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

860L

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