logo

43 pages 1 hour read

Short

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Holly Goldberg Sloan

Short

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

810L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan follows Julia, a young girl grieving for her dog, Ramon, who reluctantly joins a college production of The Wizard of Oz as a Munchkin. Throughout the summer, she navigates her insecurities about her height, finds joy in theater, forms new friendships, and learns valuable life lessons and body positivity. The novel includes discussions of racial discrimination, ableism, pet death, and grief.

Heartwarming

Humorous

Inspirational

Playful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

6,764 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan receives praise for its heartfelt narrative and inspiring protagonist, Julia, whose journey in overcoming insecurities resonates deeply with middle-grade readers. The story's humor and emotional depth are highlighted, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, the book's charm and positive messages make it a worthwhile read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Short?

Ideal for middle-grade readers and fans of heartwarming, character-driven stories like Wonder by R.J. Palacio, Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan appeals to those who appreciate themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and the performing arts. Its humor and emotional depth make it a great pick for readers aged 8-12.

4.2

6,764 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Julia Marks

The protagonist and narrator, Julia is a young girl who navigates personal insecurities and grief, particularly influenced by the recent death of her dog. Her involvement in a local production of The Wizard of Oz challenges her self-perceptions.

Julia's younger brother, who is naturally musical and enthusiastic about participating in The Wizard of Oz, contrasting with Julia’s initial reluctance. His cheerful disposition highlights Julia’s growth throughout the story.

An adult cast member of The Wizard of Oz, Olive is one of Julia's mentors who supports her throughout the play and helps her navigate her role both on and off the stage.

The director of the university's production of The Wizard of Oz. Despite being an authoritative figure, he is open to input from others, demonstrating a willingness to adapt and collaborate with his cast and crew.

Julia’s Chinese American neighbor who becomes involved in the play as the costume designer and a flying monkey, playing a significant role in supporting Julia’s development and the challenges she faces.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

810L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.