66 pages • 2 hours read
Rules
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Maine • Contemporary
2006
Middle grade
9-12 years
670L
Super Short Summary
In Rules by Cynthia Lord, 12-year-old Catherine, dealing with her brother David's autism, forms a bond with Jason, a non-speaking, wheelchair-using boy, through their shared visits to an occupational therapy clinic. As she navigates relationships with new neighbor Kristi and Jason, Catherine faces challenges balancing her desires, family responsibilities, and friendships.
Heartwarming
Emotional
Contemplative
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
66,424 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews for Cynthia Lord's Rules praise its heartwarming narrative and sensitive portrayal of autism. Many commend its relatable characters and emotional depth. Criticisms focus on a predictable plot and occasional one-dimensional side characters. Overall, it’s regarded as an insightful, compassionate middle-grade novel, though its depth may vary for some readers.
Who Should Read Rules?
Readers who enjoy Rules by Cynthia Lord are typically young teens who appreciate heartfelt, realistic fiction that explores themes of family and friendship. Comparable to fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, they seek relatable characters and emotional growth stories.
66,424 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
David
David
Catherine's eight-year-old brother who has autism, attends regular occupational therapy sessions, and causes mixed feelings of embarrassment and protectiveness in Catherine. He enjoys visiting the video store and shares a special bond with Catherine through the Frog and Toad series.
Jason Morehouse
Jason Morehouse
A teenager who attends the same occupational therapy clinic as David, uses a wheelchair, and communicates through a book of word cards. He forms a unique friendship with Catherine as she helps expand his communication abilities.
Kristi Peterson
Kristi Peterson
Catherine's new neighbor and a stylish, courteous girl who is interested in boys and fashion. She is adjusting to life in a new town and hopes to build a friendship with Catherine.
224
Novel • Fiction
Maine • Contemporary
2006
Middle grade
9-12 years
670L
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