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The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Stacy McAnulty

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

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

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Carolina • Contemporary

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

530L

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Super Short Summary

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty chronicles Lucy Callahan's journey after a lightning strike turns her into a math genius with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Transitioning from homeschooling to public middle school, Lucy navigates new friendships, challenges, and community service projects while keeping her extraordinary abilities hidden, ultimately learning valuable lessons about acceptance and perseverance. The book includes themes of illness and bullying.

Informative

Inspirational

Emotional

Heartwarming

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.5

20,018 ratings

87%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stacy McAnulty's The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is praised for its engaging story and well-developed, relatable protagonist, Lucy, a math genius dealing with middle school challenges. Positive reviews highlight its heartwarming themes and humor. Critics note some predictability in its plot. Overall, it’s an uplifting read for middle graders.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl?

Readers who enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt will likely be captivated by The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty. This heartwarming tale of a math prodigy adjusting to middle school life appeals to middle-grade readers who appreciate themes of friendship, resilience, and self-acceptance.

4.5

20,018 ratings

87%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Lucille “Lucy” Fanny Callahan

Lucy is a young math genius who, after being struck by lightning, becomes a brilliant savant. She navigates middle school life, where her mathematical talents and OCD tendencies shape her experiences.

Windy is Lucy’s friend at school, characterized by her large size, cheerfulness, and a love for animals and musicals. She supports Lucy’s quirks and becomes a key figure in her social life.

A seventh-grade student with a talent for photography, Levi is one of Lucy's friends who shares her love for animals. He helps Lucy through personal challenges and contributes to her growth.

Lucy’s grandmother and primary guardian, who homeschools her and supports her educational and personal development. Nana plays a crucial role in Lucy’s decision to attend middle school.

Lucy’s math teacher, known for his mathematical prowess and mentorship, encourages her to embrace her abilities. His role extends beyond teaching as he becomes a mentor figure to Lucy.

A peer of Lucy’s at middle school, Maddie is known for her confident social presence and is often in conflict with Lucy. Her attitudes and actions pose challenges for Lucy.

Lucy’s uncle and a Marine who prompts her transition from homeschooling to attending middle school in hopes of improving her social skills.

Owner of The Pet Hut, Claire manages an animal rescue center where Lucy volunteers. Her interactions with Lucy help her process emotions and navigate friendships.

Windy’s mother, Adele is portrayed as an elegant and stylish woman. She is involved in organizing social events and exhibits a supportive yet lightly critical demeanor.

Maddie’s mother, a take-charge individual who has high expectations for her daughter. Her behaviors influence Maddie’s actions and affect her daughter’s interactions with Lucy.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Carolina • Contemporary

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

530L

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