53 pages • 1 hour read
Slider
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
288
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • Contemporary
2017
Middle grade
10-14 years
660L
Super Short Summary
Slider by Pete Hautman follows a teenager named David who discovers his aptitude for competitive eating. As he navigates personal challenges, friendships, and family dynamics, David aims to prove himself in a high-stakes eating competition while learning important life lessons about responsibility and self-discovery.
Humorous
Playful
Emotional
Inspirational
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
3,593 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Slider by Pete Hautman offers an engaging exploration of competitive eating and self-discovery. Positively received for its humor and relatable protagonist, it effectively balances lightheartedness with deeper family themes. However, some critics note a predictable plot and simplified character development. Overall, it delivers an entertaining and meaningful read for young audiences.
Who Should Read Slider?
Readers who enjoyed the humor and heartfelt themes of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or The Lemonade War will appreciate Pete Hautman's Slider. Ideal for middle-grade readers who love competitive eating, sibling dynamics, and personal growth stories, offering a mix of relatable family dynamics and laugh-out-loud moments.
3,593 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mal Miller
Mal Miller
David's younger brother, Mal is 10 years old and has autism, with specific needs and communication challenges. His relationship with David evolves as they spend more time together.
David's Parents
David's Parents
David's mom is the primary caretaker, while his dad works full-time, leaving David feeling neglected as the middle child. They are both concerned and supportive of David's activities throughout the story.
Cyn
Cyn
David's best friend since first grade, described as tall and slender. Cyn provides both moral and practical support to David in his competitive eating pursuits.
HeyMan (Hayden Mankowski)
HeyMan (Hayden Mankowski)
One of David's best friends and known for being exceptionally hairy for a 14-year-old. HeyMan offers friendship and support to David and develops a closer relationship with Cyn.
288
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • Contemporary
2017
Middle grade
10-14 years
660L
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.