Mary Downing Hahn's Stepping on the Cracks has captivated readers with its sincere portrayal of friendship and moral dilemmas during World War II. Praised for its authentic voice and well-drawn characters, the novel is sometimes critiqued for its predictability. Overall, it is a moving and insightful read that addresses profound themes with sensitivity and depth.

Stepping on the Cracks by Mary Downing Hahn appeals to middle-grade readers who enjoy historical fiction set during WWII, akin to The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. Ideal for those interested in stories of friendship, bravery, and overcoming adversity, this book blends historical context with gripping, personal narratives.

In Mary Downing Hahn's Stepping on the Cracks, shy 12-year-old Margaret and her friend Elizabeth discover their school bully Gordy's brother, Stuart, a World War II deserter, hiding in the woods. Initially outraged, they eventually help him, prompting Margaret to question her beliefs about the war. The novel explores themes of moral ambiguity, war, friendship, and domestic abuse. Instances of domestic/child abuse appear in the book.

Melancholic / Suspenseful / Contemplative / Bittersweet

**Margaret Baker**  
A cautious and rule-abiding 12-year-old girl who is often overshadowed by her impulsive friend Elizabeth. She begins to find her own courage and voice as she navigates complex family and wartime dynamics.

**Elizabeth Crawford**  
Margaret's fearless and outspoken best friend, known for her rebellious nature and strong beliefs. Her personality often contrasts with Margaret's more reserved demeanor.

**Gordy Smith**  
A surly school bully with a tough exterior, who is protective of his family. His complex home life reveals a deeper character beyond his initial antagonistic behavior.

**Stuart Smith**  
Gordy's sensitive and thoughtful brother who is known for his pacifist beliefs. He struggles with societal expectations during the war.

**Barbara Fisher**  
A young war widow and mother who shares a deep bond with Stuart. She supports him through difficult times, drawing from her own experiences of loss.

**Jimmy Baker**  
Margaret's older brother, admired by her, who sends lighthearted letters from the war. His character represents Margaret's struggle with the realities of wartime.

**Mother (Mrs. Lilian Baker)**  
A traditional housewife focused on caring for her family and supporting the war effort. Her relationship with Margaret is impacted by her preoccupation with her son Jimmy's safety.

**Daddy (Mr. Walt Baker)**  
The family's provider and a mechanic deeply concerned with the war and their son Jimmy’s well-being. Margaret wishes for a closer and more communicative relationship with him.

**Mr. Smith**  
Gordy's aggressive and abusive father, whose actions contribute to the turbulent environment in the Smith household.

**Mrs. Smith**  
Gordy's mother, who is meek and attempts to downplay the abuse in her family. Her demeanor reflects the challenges faced by survivors in seeking help.

**Donald Smith**  
The oldest of the Smith brothers, initially known for his troublesome behavior and war exploits. His experiences in the war lead to a revelation that impacts others' perceptions of the conflict.

**June Smith**  
Gordy's younger sister, who lives in fear of their father’s abuse. Gordy is protective of her, showcasing his caring side.

**Mrs. Wagner**  
Margaret's strict sixth-grade teacher who represents a shift from the more nurturing educators of Margaret’s past. She maintains tight discipline in her classroom and avoids favoritism.

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Book Brief

Explore Stepping on the Cracks reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Book Brief Stepping on the Cracks

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Stepping on the Cracks and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Stepping on the Cracks Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Stepping on the Cracks Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

Stepping on the Cracks Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

Stepping on the Cracks Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-21

Stepping on the Cracks Chapters 16-21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-28

Stepping on the Cracks Chapters 22-28 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Stepping on the Cracks Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Stepping on the Cracks Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Stepping on the Cracks Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Stepping on the Cracks Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Stepping on the Cracks Essay Topics

Stepping on the Cracks Teaching Materials

How to use

Stepping on the Cracks How to use

Quiz

Stepping on the Cracks Quiz

Pre-Reading Context

Stepping on the Cracks Pre-Reading Context

Thought & Response Prompts

Stepping on the Cracks Thought & Response Prompts

Paired Texts & Other Resources

Stepping on the Cracks Paired Texts & Other Resources

Activity

Stepping on the Cracks Activity

Essay Questions

Stepping on the Cracks Essay Questions

Mary Downing Hahn

Novel

Gordy Smith

Fiction

Guide

stepping-on-the-cracks

Stepping on the Cracks

Book Brief

Stepping on the Cracks

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Stepping on the Cracks?