60 pages • 2 hours read
Small Steps
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Book Brief
257
Novel • Fiction
Austin, Texas • Contemporary
2006
Middle grade
10-14 years
690L
Super Short Summary
Small Steps by Louis Sachar follows Theodore “Armpit” Johnson, a Black teenager and former inmate of Camp Green Lake, as he tries to rebuild his life in Austin, Texas. Balancing an honest job and caring for his friend Ginny, Armpit gets drawn into a ticket-scalping scheme by his friend X-Ray. Complications arise when Armpit meets and develops a bond with Kaira, a famous singer, leading to a series of events that threaten to derail his progress. Contains instances of racism and references to bullying individuals with disabilities.
Challenging
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
25,331 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Small Steps by Louis Sachar is a compelling sequel to Holes, focusing on Armpit’s journey of personal growth. Praised for its character development and realistic portrayal of redemption, it also faces criticism for a slightly predictable plot. Overall, it’s an engaging read for fans of the original, offering valuable life lessons and relatable struggles.
Who Should Read Small Steps?
A reader who enjoyed Holes by Louis Sachar will likely appreciate Small Steps. This middle-grade novel targets readers who enjoy character-driven stories with elements of humor, friendship, and personal growth. Fans of Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli and Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo may find it appealing as well.
25,331 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rex Alvin “X-Ray” Washburn
Rex Alvin “X-Ray” Washburn
A 17-year-old Black teenager and Armpit's best friend, known for his impulsive nature and schemes, met Armpit at Camp Green Lake.
Ginny McDonald
Ginny McDonald
A 10-year-old white girl and Armpit’s neighbor, she forms a strong friendship with him due to her empathetic and nonjudgmental personality.
Kaira DeLeon
Kaira DeLeon
A 17-year-old Black singer on a concert tour, who is managed by her controlling stepfather and forms a friendship with Armpit and Ginny.
Jerome “El Genius” Paisley
Jerome “El Genius” Paisley
Kaira’s stepfather and manager, who is controlling and believes his smarts are the key to Kaira’s success.
Denise Linaria (“Aileen”)
Denise Linaria (“Aileen”)
Kaira’s travel coordinator, who is Jerome's accomplice and plays a significant role in the management of Kaira's tour.
Fred
Fred
Kaira’s bodyguard, hired after threatening letters began arriving, who shows genuine concern for her well-being.
Cherry Lane
Cherry Lane
The progressive mayor of Austin, an eccentric elderly white woman who advocates for equal rights and stands up against discrimination.
257
Novel • Fiction
Austin, Texas • Contemporary
2006
Middle grade
10-14 years
690L
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