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46 pages 1 hour read

Carl Deuker

Gym Candy

Carl DeukerFiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Carl Deuker

Gym Candy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

313

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

710L

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Super Short Summary

In Gym Candy by Carl Deuker, Mick Johnson, motivated by his father's NFL legacy, strives to excel in football but faces challenges in achieving recognition from his high school coach. Under pressure, Mick turns to steroids for performance enhancement, resulting in severe physical and emotional side effects that jeopardize his relationships and career aspirations. The novel explores themes of ambition, pressure, and the consequences of drug use. The book includes themes of drug use, depression, and suicide.

Challenging

Dark

Gritty

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

7,737 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Gym Candy by Carl Deuker has been praised for its realistic portrayal of high school athletes and the pressures they face. Readers appreciate the book’s engaging plot and well-developed characters. Criticisms include a predictable storyline and heavy-handed moral lessons. Overall, it’s considered a compelling read for young adults interested in sports and ethical dilemmas.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gym Candy?

Readers who enjoy Gym Candy by Carl Deuker are typically young adults interested in sports, particularly football, and the challenges faced by teen athletes. Fans of books like Friday Night Lights and The Catcher in the Rye will appreciate the gritty, realistic portrayal of high school pressures and personal growth.

4.4

7,737 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

313

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

710L

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