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34 pages 1 hour read

The Jacket

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2001

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Book Brief

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Andrew Clements

The Jacket

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

96

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • 2000s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

640L

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Super Short Summary

The novella The Jacket follows 12-year-old Phil as he realizes he harbors racial prejudices he was unaware of after he wrongfully accuses Daniel, a Black peer, of stealing his brother's jacket. Through this conflict, Phil reflects on his biases and societal racial dynamics, ultimately seeking to make amends and understanding that he has more to learn about overcoming prejudice. Sensitive topics include racial bias and prejudice.

Contemplative

Challenging

Emotional

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.1

2,204 ratings

56%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Andrew Clements' The Jacket explores themes of prejudice and empathy suitable for young readers. Many appreciate its accessible writing and thought-provoking content, praising its ability to prompt meaningful conversations. However, some critics find the characters underdeveloped and the storyline simplistic. Overall, it is a commendable effort to address complex social issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Jacket?

A reader who would enjoy The Jacket by Andrew Clements is typically in middle school, enjoys realistic fiction, and is interested in themes of racial identity and social justice. Fans of books like Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Front Desk by Kelly Yang would likely appreciate the poignant narrative and engaging writing in The Jacket.

4.1

2,204 ratings

56%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

96

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • 2000s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

640L

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