73 pages • 2 hours read
The Outsiders
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Tulsa, Oklahoma • 1960s
1967
YA
12-18 years
750L
Super Short Summary
The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton follows 14-year-old Ponyboy Curtis, a member of the "greaser" gang in 1960s Tulsa, Oklahoma, as he navigates the intense conflict between the greasers and their wealthy rivals, the Socs. After Ponyboy and his friend Johnny get involved in a deadly altercation with the Socs, they hide in a church, which later catches fire. Rescuing trapped children, they sustain injuries, and the ensuing gang warfare and personal losses lead Ponyboy to reflect on his experiences in an essay for school. The novel contains themes of violence and underage substance use.
Gritty
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
1,445,586 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
S. E. Hinton's The Outsiders resonates with readers for its authentic portrayal of teenage angst and class conflict. Positive remarks often highlight its emotional depth and relatable characters, while critiques sometimes point to its straightforward prose and stereotypical elements. Still, its impact on youth literature remains significant.
Who Should Read The Outsiders?
A reader who would enjoy The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton is typically a young adult interested in themes of social class conflict, friendship, and coming-of-age. Fans of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee or Lord of the Flies by William Golding may find this novel compelling for its exploration of societal issues and youth struggles.
1,445,586 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
224
Novel • Fiction
Tulsa, Oklahoma • 1960s
1967
YA
12-18 years
750L
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