Plot Summary

Jumping Off Swings

Jo Knowles
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Jumping Off Swings

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009

Book Brief

Jo Knowles

Jumping Off Swings

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Theme
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL570L

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Super Short Summary

Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles centers on Ellie, a teenager who becomes pregnant after a brief encounter with a boy named Josh at a party. As both teens grapple with the fallout—Ellie with her pregnancy and societal judgment, Josh with shame and fear—the narrative explores the complex dynamics of teenage relationships, friendships, and the challenging decisions surrounding youth pregnancy. Topics include teenage sex, youth pregnancy, and the emotional aftermath of giving a child up for adoption.

Emotional

Challenging

Contemplative

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.9

5,960 ratings

59%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles is a poignant and emotionally charged novel exploring teenage pregnancy and its impact on four lives. Critics praise its realistic dialogue and multifaceted characters, capturing the confusion and growth of adolescence. Some find the multiple perspectives occasionally disjointed, but overall, it’s lauded for its sensitivity and relatability.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Jumping Off Swings?

Readers who would enjoy Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles are typically teens and young adults who appreciate realistic fiction exploring complex emotional landscapes and relationships. Fans of Sarah Dessen's Someone Like You or Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak will find this book's honest portrayal of adolescence compelling.

3.9

5,960 ratings

59%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Theme
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL570L

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