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106 pages 3 hours read

Slacker

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Gordon Korman

Slacker

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sycamore, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-13 years

Lexile Level

710L

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Super Short Summary

In Gordon Korman's Slacker, eighth-grader Cameron Boxer is a video game enthusiast who almost lets his house burn down while gaming. His parents force him to join a school activity, leading to the creation of the fake Positive Action Group (P.A.G.) with friends Chuck and Pavel. Unintentionally, the P.A.G. becomes a real club focused on community service, challenging Cameron to navigate newfound responsibilities and leadership.

Humorous

Playful

Adventurous

Upbeat

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

7,025 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Slacker by Gordon Korman is generally well-received, lauded for its humor, relatable characters, and engaging plot which appeals to young readers. Positive reviews highlight Korman's ability to address themes like responsibility and teamwork in an entertaining way. However, some critics feel the storyline can be predictable. Despite mixed opinions on depth, it's deemed a fun and motivating read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Slacker?

Fans of The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and Big Nate will enjoy Gordon Korman's Slacker. Targeting middle school readers, it's perfect for those who appreciate humorous, relatable tales of navigating school, friendships, and unexpected responsibilities. It's ideal for anyone looking for a light-hearted yet engaging read.

4.3

7,025 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Cameron Boxer

Cameron, an eighth-grade gamer at the center of the story, is known for his slacker lifestyle and love for video games. His journey is set in motion when he creates a fake club to keep playing games without parental interference.

Daphne, a passionate eighth-grader, is one of the first to join Cam's club. She is committed to animal welfare, particularly an abandoned beaver named Elvis, and plays a key role in the club's development.

Pavel is one of Cam's best friends and fellow gamers, renowned for his intelligence and computer skills. He contributes to Cam's fake club by setting up a website to make it seem legitimate.

Chuck is another of Cam's gaming friends who begins to transform after getting involved in the club. He discovers new interests and becomes an active participant in community projects.

Mr. Fanshaw is a middle school guidance counselor who unknowingly aids in the success of Cam's club. Driven by the potential positive impact on students and the community, he encourages the club's activities.

Melody is Cam's younger sister who grows frustrated with his antics and plots to expose his club hoax. She ultimately plays a significant role in the club's unintentional success.

Jennifer is the high school senior and head of a rival community service club. Competitive and ambitious, she sees Cam's club as a threat to her resume-boosting efforts.

String, a star football player, becomes involved in the club for extra credit. Initially driven by his love for football, he finds himself more committed to the club's cause.

Xavier is a tough eighth-grader with a troubled past who is compelled to join the club for community service. His involvement in the club gives him a positive outlet and a sense of purpose.

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sycamore, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-13 years

Lexile Level

710L

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