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Freak the Mighty

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1993

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Book Brief

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Rodman Philbrick

Freak the Mighty

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1993
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

America • 1990s

Publication Year

1993

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

930L

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Super Short Summary

Freak the Mighty follows the friendship between Maxwell Kane, a shy and misunderstood 12-year-old, and Kevin "Freak," an intelligent boy with a physical disability. Together, they embark on adventures, confront bullies, and face numerous challenges, while their bond helps them navigate societal rejection and personal fears. The story includes themes of trauma and violence.

Inspirational

Emotional

Heartwarming

Adventurous

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.3

60,030 ratings

75%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick has been broadly praised for its heartwarming and poignant depiction of an unlikely friendship between two boys. Readers appreciate the compelling characters and the emotional depth. However, some criticize the narrative for its occasional predictability. Overall, it's celebrated as an inspiring tale that addresses themes of friendship and resilience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Freak the Mighty?

Readers who enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson will likely appreciate Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick. Ideal for middle grade readers, this novel captivates those interested in themes of friendship, overcoming obstacles, and personal growth.

4.3

60,030 ratings

75%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Max

A large and reserved 12-year-old boy who lives with his grandparents; he grapples with his father's criminal legacy and forms a close friendship with Freak, which changes his self-perception.

An intelligent young boy with Morquio syndrome who befriends Max; he is interested in various fields of study and imagines himself as part of a great adventure with Max.

Max's grandmother, who initially fears him due to his resemblance to his father but grows closer to him as she sees his friendship with Freak.

Max's grandfather, who is protective of his family and wary of Max's potential similarities to his criminal father; he becomes more supportive of Max as he proves to be a caring friend.

Kevin's kind and generous mother who worries about her son; she is initially wary of Max but welcomes their friendship.

Max's father, who is notorious for his criminal past and whose influence looms over Max's life due to his violent history.

A woman living in the tenements who interacts with Max and Freak during one of their ventures; she has a complicated relationship with the boys but shows some redeeming qualities.

Leader of The Panheads motorcycle gang, who interacts with Max and Freak and has connections to Killer Kane, displaying a fear-driven nature.

Freak and Max's English teacher who is initially overwhelmed by their classroom dynamic but gradually recognizes their unique way of learning together.

The principal of Freak and Max’s school, who is concerned about Max's well-being and offers him supportive reassurances.

Freak's attending physician at the hospital, who shares insights into Freak's condition and his imaginative outlook.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

America • 1990s

Publication Year

1993

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

930L

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