81 pages • 2 hours read
Notes From The Midnight Driver
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2006
YA
12-16 years
850L
Super Short Summary
In Notes From the Midnight Driver by Jordan Sonnenblick, Alex Gregory, a teenager dealing with his parents' divorce, gets drunk and crashes his mother's car, leading to community service at a nursing home where he befriends a cranky elderly man, Sol. As Alex navigates school, his feelings for his best friend Laurie, and preparing a benefit concert for Sol, he undergoes significant personal growth. The book contains references to alcohol abuse and the impacts of drunk driving.
Humorous
Emotional
Heartwarming
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
10,308 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Notes From The Midnight Driver by Jordan Sonnenblick delivers a heartfelt and humorous tale with relatable characters and emotional depth. Critics appreciate its authentic teen voice and poignant life lessons. However, some reviewers feel the plot is predictable and certain character arcs underdeveloped. Overall, a touching read that resonates with young adults.
Who Should Read Notes From The Midnight Driver?
Readers who enjoy Notes From The Midnight Driver by Jordan Sonnenblick are typically young adults who appreciate coming-of-age stories with a blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Fans of Looking for Alaska by John Green and The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky will find similar emotional depth and relatable teen experiences.
10,308 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Solomon “Sol” Lewis
Solomon “Sol” Lewis
An elderly man with emphysema who becomes a central figure through Alex's community service assignment. Known for his cantankerous demeanor, he is also a gifted musician with a complex history.
Laurie
Laurie
Alex's best friend and a critical romantic interest, described as intimidatingly attractive and skilled in karate. She shares a bond with Alex due to both having divorced parents.
Ms. Gregory, Alex’s Mother
Ms. Gregory, Alex’s Mother
Alex's stern but hard-working mother, who plays a significant role in arranging Alex’s community service experience. She works at a nursing home and is supportive as she navigates her relationship post-divorce.
Mr. Gregory, Alex’s Father
Mr. Gregory, Alex’s Father
A bank manager living separately since the divorce, he challenges Alex's assumptions about their relationship. He is more absent compared to Alex's mother.
Judge Judy Trent
Judge Judy Trent
A secondary character who oversees Alex's community service and serves as a backdrop for his reflections. Later revealed to have a personal connection to Sol.
288
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2006
YA
12-16 years
850L
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