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The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Leslie Connor

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle

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

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Modern-day America

Theme
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

310L

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Super Short Summary

In The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle, Mason Buttle is a 12-year-old with learning disabilities who is mourning the loss of his friend Benny, whom he found dead in his family's orchard. Befriending Calvin Chumsky, Mason's life takes another turn when Calvin goes missing, triggering Mason to confront his fears and investigate the unfortunate events surrounding him.

Emotional

Challenging

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.5

9,673 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Leslie Connor's The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle is praised for its heartfelt narrative and deeply authentic characters. Critics commend the empathetic portrayal of Mason's struggles with grief and learning disabilities. However, some note the pacing can be slow. Overall, it's an emotionally powerful and enlightening read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle?

Readers who would enjoy The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle by Leslie Connor are likely fans of emotionally rich, character-driven middle-grade novels. Comparable to Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, this book appeals to those who appreciate stories of perseverance, friendship, and overcoming adversity.

4.5

9,673 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Mason Buttle

A 12-year-old middle schooler living on a family apple orchard, dealing with grief and learning disabilities including synesthesia, who seeks self-acceptance and confidence.

The school social worker who is supportive and introduces Mason to voice-to-text software to help him write, encouraging him through storytelling.

Mason’s best friend since the first grade who shares a close bond with him before his untimely death the year before the main events of the story.

Benny’s father and a carpenter, initially distancing himself from Mason following Benny's death due to grief.

The police officer investigating Benny’s death, who often interacts with Mason about his memories of the day of the accident.

Mason’s uncle and father figure, who takes care of the orchard and supports Mason throughout the story.

Mason’s grandmother, a supportive and loving figure who helps nurture the family through difficult times.

A newcomer living in Mason’s old bedroom, initially misunderstood by Mason but connects with him over shared grief.

Mason’s new friend, characterized by his small stature and curiosity, constantly learning about the world around him.

A classmate and neighbor of Mason and Calvin, notorious for bullying and behavioral issues.

Matt’s mother, who is kind to Mason and struggles to manage her son’s behavior.

The Drinker family’s dog, who is fond of Mason and eventually becomes his pet.

A determined classmate with cerebral palsy, known for her independence and inspiration to Mason.

A friend of Matt and Lance, who is more understanding towards Mason and grapples with secrets he learns.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Modern-day America

Theme
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

310L

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