59 pages • 1 hour read
The Next Great Paulie Fink
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
Vermont • Contemporary
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
The Next Great Paulie Fink by Ali Benjamin follows seventh grader Caitlyn Breen, who arrives at the Mitchell School in rural Vermont and encounters a scheme by her quirky classmates, the Originals, to find a replacement for the mysteriously vanished Paulie Fink through a game-show-style competition. As they navigate challenges, they grapple with Paulie’s legendary status and learn about identity, nonconformity, and community.
Humorous
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Emotional
Upbeat
Reviews & Readership
2,811 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Next Great Paulie Fink by Ali Benjamin has been praised for its engaging storytelling and relatable characters, with a strong focus on themes of identity and community. However, some readers feel the narrative pace is uneven and certain subplots could be more developed. Overall, it is considered a thought-provoking and heartfelt read suitable for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read The Next Great Paulie Fink?
A reader who would enjoy The Next Great Paulie Fink by Ali Benjamin is likely a middle-grade student who appreciates humorous yet poignant stories about fitting in and discovering oneself. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea will find similar themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth.
2,811 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Paulie Fink
Paulie Fink
Paulie is an enigmatic former student known for his humor and pranks, whose absence spurs a competition to find his successor, driving the story's intrigue.
Henry Cardinali
Henry Cardinali
Henry is a member of the Originals who is distinguished by his respect for rules and order, yet learns the value of flexibility and teamwork in the novel.
Gabby Amisi
Gabby Amisi
Gabby, a close friend of Caitlyn's and an Originals member, is motivated by her family's struggles and dreams beyond her small-town life, selflessly working to help save their school.
Fiona Fawnstock
Fiona Fawnstock
Fiona is a bold and disruptive member of the Originals who challenges norms with a penchant for individuality, contributing to the team with her empowering spirit.
Miss Magruder (Mags)
Miss Magruder (Mags)
Mags is the humanities teacher who guides the Originals in understanding storytelling and legacy with her insightful and rebellious approach to teaching.
Mr. Farabi
Mr. Farabi
Mr. Farabi is the earnest science, math, and gym teacher supporting students' creativity and unconventionally fostering their learning experiences.
Principal Alice Glebus (Glebus)
Principal Alice Glebus (Glebus)
Principal Glebus is the stern leader of the school, whose tough demeanor belies her genuine care and efforts to prevent its closure.
368
Novel • Fiction
Vermont • Contemporary
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
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