89 pages • 2 hours read
My Life as a Book
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Book Brief
240
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2010
Middle grade
8-12 years
880L
Super Short Summary
My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian follows 12-year-old Derek Fallon, who lives in California with his family and dog, Bodi. Derek's summer plans of fun and mischief take an unexpected turn when he discovers a newspaper article about a girl's drowning. While grappling with this mystery and his summer reading list, Derek learns about responsibility, friendship, and overcoming challenges. The novel addresses themes of drowning and loss.
Humorous
Playful
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
5,311 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Janet Tashjian's My Life as a Book has been praised for its engaging and humorous portrayal of a reluctant reader's summer. Reviewers appreciate the relatable protagonist and the creative integration of illustrations, though some note the plot's predictability. Overall, it’s seen as a delightful, accessible read for middle graders.
Who Should Read My Life as a Book?
Readers who enjoy My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian are typically middle-grade students who appreciate humorous, illustrated novels. Fans of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Lincoln Peirce's Big Nate series will be drawn to the relatable, mischievous protagonist and engaging narrative style.
5,311 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
240
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2010
Middle grade
8-12 years
880L
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