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57 pages 1 hour read

Loser

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002

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Book Brief

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Jerry Spinelli

Loser

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

218

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

710L

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Super Short Summary

Loser by Jerry Spinelli narrates the story of Donald Zinkoff, an eccentric and joyful boy who navigates through his elementary years largely unnoticed, facing bullies and struggles due to his clumsiness and academic challenges. Despite setbacks, Zinkoff approaches life with a positive attitude, eventually becoming an accidental hero during a middle school incident and earning newfound respect.

Heartwarming

Contemplative

Emotional

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

22,410 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jerry Spinelli's Loser garners praise for its touching portrayal of an unconventional protagonist, Zinkoff, highlighting themes of individuality and resilience. Readers appreciate Spinelli's unique, heartfelt narrative style and relatable characters. However, some criticize the pacing and repetitive elements. Overall, it's a compelling read that resonates with both younger audiences and adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Loser?

Readers who would enjoy Loser by Jerry Spinelli are typically middle-grade students interested in heartfelt, coming-of-age stories. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Holes by Louis Sachar will appreciate the book's themes of individuality, resilience, and the focus on an unconventional protagonist.

4.2

22,410 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

218

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

710L

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