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50 pages 1 hour read

Lu

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Jason Reynolds

Lu

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

570L

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Super Short Summary

Lu by Jason Reynolds follows Lu Richardson, a young boy with albinism, as he faces personal hurdles on and off the track. With a new sibling on the way, Lu grapples with feelings of inadequacy and learns about integrity and resilience. Supported by his family and track team, he navigates complex relationships and ultimately gains confidence, embracing his role as a big brother. The book involves substance use disorder and bullying.

Inspirational

Emotional

Heartwarming

Hopeful

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.5

7,407 ratings

88%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jason Reynolds' Lu captivates with its engaging prose and relatable characters. Readers appreciate the exploration of identity and perseverance, praising the book's emotional depth and inspiring narrative. Some found character development predictable, but overall, it's a poignant conclusion to the series that resonates with both teens and adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lu?

Fans of YA novels like The Crossover by Kwame Alexander and Ghost by Jason Reynolds will enjoy Lu, the final book in the Track series. Ideal for readers aged 10-14, it blends sports, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles, appealing to those who love stories about athletic teens navigating challenges on and off the track.

4.5

7,407 ratings

88%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Lu Richardson

The story's protagonist who deals with personal insecurities and family dynamics changes, particularly with a new baby sibling on the way. His journey includes overcoming challenges and learning valuable life lessons.

Lu’s father, who previously dealt drugs but now works as a rehab recruiter, teaching Lu about the complexity of people and the importance of integrity.

A supportive athletic coach who helps guide Lu and the other athletes through life's obstacles. He encourages them to trust in their abilities and confront challenges head-on.

Lu’s mother, who runs a fruit sculpture business and teaches Lu lessons about individuality and inner strength through her creative and thoughtful nature.

A former classmate and bully of Lu’s, who indirectly influences Lu’s path in track after an altercation, offering insights into the struggles beneath his tough exterior.

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

570L

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