61 pages • 2 hours read
Goodbye Stranger
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 2010s
2015
Middle grade
10-14 years
560L
Super Short Summary
In Rebecca Stead's Goodbye Stranger, Bridge navigates seventh grade alongside friends Tab and Em, but their bond is tested as Em faces a scandal involving a revealing photo and Patrick, an older boy. Bridge, finding solace in a new friendship with Sherm, aids Em during the upheaval while yearning to understand her purpose post-accident. Simultaneously, Celeste skips school to reflect on her own friendship dilemmas and make amends.
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
15,301 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead is highly praised for its relatable characters and engaging, multifaceted plot. Critics commend its exploration of friendship and identity. However, some find its narrative structure slightly disjointed, affecting pacing. Overall, it is a compelling read for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read Goodbye Stranger?
Readers who enjoy Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead are typically preteens to young teens who appreciate nuanced narratives about friendship, identity, and middle school challenges. Those who liked Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea will likely find this book equally engaging.
15,301 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Emily "Em"
Emily "Em"
A friend in Bridge's trio whose maturing body brings both admiration and unwanted attention, impacting her social standing and self-image at school.
Tabitha "Tab" Patel
Tabitha "Tab" Patel
An outspoken and socially conscious member of Bridge's friend group who is passionate about social justice and recycling, learning the impact of her impulsive actions.
Sherman "Sherm" Russo
Sherman "Sherm" Russo
A quiet, introverted boy who becomes a close friend to Bridge, sharing his vulnerabilities as he struggles with family issues and middle school life.
Celeste Patel
Celeste Patel
Tab's older sister, an unnamed narrator facing emotional turmoil and the challenges of adolescence, while offering guidance to Bridge.
320
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 2010s
2015
Middle grade
10-14 years
560L
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