The Usual Rules
The Usual Rules
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003
Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 2000s
2003
Adult
12-18 years
790L
Super Short Summary
The Usual Rules by Joyce Maynard follows thirteen-year-old Wendy, who must cope with the presumed death of her mother in the World Trade Center attacks. Moving from Brooklyn to California to live with her biological father, she grapples with her identity, makes new friends, and eventually decides where she truly belongs. Sensitive themes include the loss of a parent in a national tragedy.
Melancholic
Emotional
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
3,411 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Usual Rules by Joyce Maynard is broadly appreciated for its poignant exploration of loss and recovery, and its well-drawn, relatable characters. Readers commend its emotional depth and evocative narrative. However, some find the pacing slow and feel certain plot developments are predictable. Overall, it is a compelling read that resonates with many, despite minor critiques.
Who Should Read The Usual Rules?
Ideal for readers who savor emotional journeys and coming-of-age stories, The Usual Rules by Joyce Maynard will captivate fans of Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper or Ann Brashares' The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Its poignant exploration of loss and healing appeals to both teens and adults seeking heartfelt narratives.
3,411 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
400
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 2000s
2003
Adult
12-18 years
790L
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