44 pages • 1 hour read
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144
Novel • Fiction
Pacific Ocean • Contemporary
2001
Middle grade
8-12 years
In Shipwreck, six troubled teens embark on a month-long sea voyage aboard The Phoenix under the Charting a New Course program to develop teamwork and social skills. When a violent storm strikes, the schooner is damaged, the captain is lost, and the first mate abandons them. The teens must work together to survive, eventually relying on a makeshift raft and their wits to reach a mysterious island.
Adventurous
Suspenseful
Exciting
Challenging
Heartwarming
6,862 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gordon Korman's Shipwreck offers an engaging adventure for middle-grade readers, praised for its fast pace and diverse characters. The survival aspects captivate, enhancing the story's excitement. However, some find character development lacking and the plot occasionally predictable. Overall, it's an entertaining read that keeps young readers hooked.
Readers who enjoy Shipwreck by Gordon Korman are typically pre-teens and young teens who love adventure and survival stories. Fans of Hatchet by Gary Paulsen and Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell would find this book appealing for its thrilling plot and themes of resilience and teamwork.
6,862 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Will Greenfield
A teenager with low self-esteem, struggling with his feelings toward his younger sister, Lyssa, who is also on The Phoenix. Will often feels overshadowed by her achievements.
Lyssa Greenfield
Will’s slightly younger sister, known for her friendly demeanor and bright curiosity. She is academically gifted and displays practical problem-solving skills during the voyage.
Charla Swann
A 13-year-old, world-class athlete on The Phoenix to regain confidence away from her demanding father. Charla is quiet and observant, gradually warming up to her fellow crew members.
Ian Sikorsky
The youngest member of the crew at around 11 years old, who overcomes his homesickness and shyness by sharing valuable survival knowledge from his TV habits.
J. J. Lane (Jonathan Junior)
The 14-year-old son of a famous movie star, J.J. is spoiled and arrogant, showcasing a flippant disregard for authority and a penchant for boasting about his wealth.
Mr. Calvin Radford
The first mate on The Phoenix, known for his cruelty and heartlessness toward the young crew members, with a noted lack of interest in forming connections.
Captain James Cascadden
The experienced and kind captain of The Phoenix who is committed to helping his troubled young crew learn and transform through their seafaring adventure.
144
Novel • Fiction
Pacific Ocean • Contemporary
2001
Middle grade
8-12 years
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