58 pages • 1 hour read
Swindle
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Book Brief
256
Novel • Fiction
Cedarville • Contemporary
2008
Middle grade
8-12 years
710L
Super Short Summary
In Swindle by Gordon Korman, 6th-grader Griffin Bing enlists a group of his classmates to help him retrieve a rare Babe Ruth baseball card from an unscrupulous collector named Swindle, who conned Griffin out of the card. The story follows Griffin and his friends' elaborate heist to reclaim the card, navigating several challenges along the way.
Adventurous
Exciting
Playful
Humorous
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
20,206 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Swindle by Gordon Korman is generally lauded for its fast-paced and engaging plot, appealing to middle-grade readers. Critics highlight its humor, diverse characters, and clever schemes, which keep the story entertaining. However, some reviews note a lack of depth in character development and predictability in the storyline, which may limit its appeal to older readers.
Who Should Read Swindle?
Readers who enjoy Gordon Korman’s Swindle likely appreciate fast-paced, action-packed narratives filled with clever plots and spirited characters. Fans of books like The 39 Clues series or Holes by Louis Sachar, which combine mystery, adventure, and teamwork, would find Swindle particularly engaging.
20,206 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ben Slovak
Ben Slovak
Griffin's best friend and the voice of reason in the group. He initially hesitates about Griffin's plan but supports him out of loyalty.
S. Wendell “Swindle” Palomino
S. Wendell “Swindle” Palomino
The antagonist who deceitfully acquires a valuable baseball card from Griffin, driven by greed and profit.
Darren Vader
Darren Vader
Griffin's nemesis who initially opposes Griffin but becomes an untrustworthy part of the team. He has ties to the card's history.
Savannah Drysdale
Savannah Drysdale
An animal lover who joins Griffin's team, known for taming even the fiercest animals. She balances her moral concerns with the potential financial gains for her future education.
Antonia “Pitch” Benson
Antonia “Pitch” Benson
A fearless and skilled rock climber who plays a crucial role in executing Griffin's plan, maintaining composure in challenging situations.
Logan Kellerman
Logan Kellerman
An initially unlikable child actor who uses his theatrical skills to assist Griffin's group. He undergoes personal growth and finds camaraderie with Eli Mulroney.
Melissa Dukakis
Melissa Dukakis
A previously underestimated girl who gains confidence and proves vital to the team by successfully handling technical tasks.
256
Novel • Fiction
Cedarville • Contemporary
2008
Middle grade
8-12 years
710L
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