44 pages • 1 hour read
The Wave
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Book Brief
144
Novel • Fiction
Palo Alto, California • 1960s
1981
YA
12-18 years
770L
Super Short Summary
The Wave by Todd Strasser is a fictional account of a social experiment conducted at the fictional Gordon High School, where history teacher Ben Ross creates a movement called The Wave to demonstrate the dangers of groupthink and authoritarianism to his students, leading to unintended consequences that highlight the importance of individuality and the lessons of the past. The book includes depictions of bullying, violence, and discussions about the Holocaust.
Mysterious
Unnerving
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
38,302 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Todd Strasser's The Wave highlight its compelling exploration of groupthink and authority, drawing readers in with its thought-provoking narrative. Positively, reviewers praise its powerful message and engaging plot. However, some criticize the character development as lacking depth. Overall, it serves as a poignant cautionary tale about the dangers of conformity.
Who Should Read The Wave?
An ideal reader for Todd Strasser’s The Wave is a young adult interested in social psychology and historical events like WWII. Fans of Lois Lowry’s The Giver and William Golding’s Lord of the Flies would appreciate its exploration of group dynamics and authority. Perfect for readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives.
38,302 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ben Ross
Ben Ross
A well-meaning and charismatic history teacher who conducts The Wave experiment in class to teach students about the allure and dangers of fascism, resulting in unexpected consequences.
David Collins
David Collins
Laurie’s boyfriend and a football player at the school, initially supportive of The Wave, whose perspective shifts as the experiment progresses.
Robert Billings
Robert Billings
A previously outcast student who finds a sense of belonging through The Wave, becoming one of its most ardent supporters.
144
Novel • Fiction
Palo Alto, California • 1960s
1981
YA
12-18 years
770L
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