81 pages 2 hours read

Freak the Mighty

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1993

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Summary and Study Guide

Overview

Freak the Mighty tells the story of two boys—a slow-learning giant and a genius in a disabled body—who become friends, share adventures, and defend themselves against bullies and social rejection. Published in 1993, Freak the Mighty sold two million copies in nine languages, received multiple awards, and was made into a Golden Globe-nominated film, The Mighty, starring Sharon Stone, Kieran Culkin, Gillian Anderson, and Harry Dean Stanton. Max’s adventures continue in a sequel called Max the Mighty. The 2013 e-book edition forms the basis for this study guide.

Plot Summary

Maxwell Kane is very large for a 12-year-old but also very shy. As a small child, he witnessed his father, Kenny “Killer” Kane, murder his mother. Since his father went to prison, Max has lived with his grandparents, Grim and Gram. His room is in the basement, where he spends most of his free time. People think he is dangerous like his dad, and Max fears they are right.

Max meets a new neighbor, a kid his age with a disability that gives him a tiny body and limited mobility. His name is Kevin but everyone calls him Freak. Freak is extremely smart and educated, and he has a commanding personality.

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