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46 pages 1 hour read

Free Lunch

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Rex Ogle

Free Lunch

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Texas • 1990s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

HL540L

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Super Short Summary

Free Lunch by Rex Ogle is a memoir about his sixth-grade year dealing with the emotional and financial challenges of his family. Rex navigates isolation at school, domestic violence, and poverty, while trying to find hope and gratitude amidst adversity. The story highlights the impacts of classism, abuse, and conditional love on youth and families. The book includes descriptions of child abuse, domestic violence, and a racial slur.

Challenging

Emotional

Melancholic

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

10,189 ratings

88%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rex Ogle's Free Lunch has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of poverty and childhood struggles. Readers commend its emotional depth and relatability, though some note discomfort with its unflinching depictions of hardship. The memoir is lauded for its educational value and powerful narrative, making it a compelling read despite occasional bleakness.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Free Lunch?

Readers who would enjoy Rex Ogle's Free Lunch are typically middle-grade and preteen readers, aged 10-14, who appreciate raw, heartfelt memoirs about overcoming adversity. Fans of Wonder by R. J. Palacio and Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson, which also explore themes of resilience and self-discovery, may find Ogle's story compelling.

4.5

10,189 ratings

88%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Rex Ogle

The narrator and main character, Rex recounts his experiences growing up in poverty with the added challenges of physical, emotional, and economic abuse, all while navigating the complexities of family life.

Rex and Ford's mother, who struggles with financial instability and exhibits unpredictable behavior, which impacts her relationship with her children.

Luciana’s boyfriend and Ford’s biological father, who is abusive and contributes to the family's tense living environment.

Rex’s younger half-brother, whom Rex cares for and protects amidst the instability of their home life.

Rex’s best friend at school, who introduces Rex to superheroes and encourages him to see beyond his current struggles.

Luciana’s mother and Rex’s grandmother, who provides a positive influence and support for Rex despite their limited time together.

Rex's initial group of friends from elementary school, who distance themselves from him in middle school due to class differences.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Texas • 1990s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

HL540L

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