BOOK BRIEF

The Gadget

Paul Zindel
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The Gadget

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003

Book Brief

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Paul Zindel

The Gadget

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

184

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Action & Adventure

Children`s Literature
Period
World War II
Setting

Los Alamos, New Mexico • 1940s

Topic
Military & War

World History
Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

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Super Short Summary

In The Gadget, readers follow Stephen, a young person living at a secretive military base during World War II. As his scientist father works on a mysterious project, Stephen becomes entangled in his family’s duties, leading to revelations about the atomic bomb's development and its broader implications. The narrative captures the tension and ethical dilemmas faced during this pivotal era.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Emotional

Challenging

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

479 ratings

54%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Paul Zindel's The Gadget is acclaimed for its engaging portrayal of World War II through a compelling young protagonist. Readers praise its gripping narrative and historical detail, which effectively capture the era's tension. Some critics note a lack of depth in character development. Overall, Zindel's blend of history and fiction is both educational and entertaining.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Gadget?

A reader who enjoys The Gadget by Paul Zindel would appreciate historical fiction mixed with science and intrigue. Fans of adolescent protagonists facing moral dilemmas, much like in The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne, would find this novel compelling. The backdrop of WWII and scientific discovery appeals to readers of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

4.0

479 ratings

54%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

184

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Action & Adventure

Children`s Literature
Period
World War II
Setting

Los Alamos, New Mexico • 1940s

Topic
Military & War

World History
Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

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