37 pages • 1 hour read
Lawn Boy
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Book Brief
96
Novella • Fiction
Minnesota • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
8-12 years
780L
Super Short Summary
In Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen, a 12-year-old boy receives an old lawn mower from his grandmother for his birthday, leading him to start a lawn mowing business. As his business expands, he meets a stockbroker named Arnold, who invests his earnings in stocks. The boy's investments and business ventures accidentally make him wealthy, including owning a stake in a heavyweight boxer, Joey Pow.
Humorous
Playful
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
9,485 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Gary Paulsen's Lawn Boy has garnered praise for its humor, engaging story, and the relatable, enterprising young protagonist. Critics appreciate the book's easy-to-read style and life lessons on entrepreneurship. However, some find its plot simplistic and predictably structured, appealing predominantly to younger audiences. Overall, it's a charming read with valuable insights.
Who Should Read Lawn Boy?
Readers who enjoy Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen are typically young teens interested in realistic, humorous coming-of-age stories. Fans of books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney and Frindle by Andrew Clements will appreciate Paulsen's engaging narrative and relatable protagonist.
9,485 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Arnold Howell
Arnold Howell
A stockbroker with a quirky appearance and 70's flair, who helps the boy's business by paying him with stock investments.
Joseph Powdermilk Jr. (Joey Pow)
Joseph Powdermilk Jr. (Joey Pow)
A heavyweight boxer sponsored by the boy, known for his enormous size and straightforward, honest approach.
Grandma
Grandma
The boy's eccentric maternal grandmother, whose strange yet thoughtful advice reveals years of wisdom.
The Boy’s Parents
The Boy’s Parents
Intelligent and caring, they struggle financially but focus on their son's growth and well-being, embodying family support and compassion.
96
Novella • Fiction
Minnesota • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
8-12 years
780L
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