44 pages 1 hour read

Sunny

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

Jason Reynolds

Sunny

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Publisher

Caitlyn Dlouhy Books

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

700L

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Super Short Summary

In Jason Reynolds's Sunny, Sunny Lancaster contends with his mother's death at his birth, a challenging relationship with his father, and the desire to quit his successful track career. Over a week, he writes journal entries about shifting from running to the discus throw and pursuing a new interest in dance, while receiving support from his coach, his mother's friend Aurelia, and his father. This book includes themes of grief, parental pressure, and emotional trauma.

Emotional

Inspirational

Hopeful

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.4

9,446 ratings

79%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sunny by Jason Reynolds captures readers with its energetic and introspective narrative. Positive reviews commend Reynolds' engaging prose and the depth of Sunny's character, connecting well with teens facing personal struggles. Some critique the story's pacing and complexity of the plot. Overall, Sunny stands out for its emotional resonance and unique perspective in young adult literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sunny?

Readers who enjoy Sunny by Jason Reynolds are typically young adults interested in sports, self-discovery, and overcoming personal struggles. Fans of Kwame Alexander's The Crossover or Jacqueline Woodson’s Brown Girl Dreaming will be particularly drawn to the poetic prose and compelling, diverse characters.

4.4

9,446 ratings

79%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Sunny Lancaster

A talented runner on the Defenders track team who feels unfulfilled despite his success, prompting him to explore new interests and personal growth.

Sunny’s father, whose high expectations for Sunny's running stem from a desire to honor Sunny's late mother and connect with her legacy.

Sunny's supportive homeschool teacher and best friend, who was also close to his mother and encourages Sunny's exploration of his identity beyond running.

Sunny’s track coach, who is stern but supportive, helping Sunny navigate his identity and athletic challenges by accommodating his need for change.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Publisher

Caitlyn Dlouhy Books

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

700L

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