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Gary D. Schmidt

The Wednesday Wars

Gary D. SchmidtFiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Gary D. Schmidt

The Wednesday Wars

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Long Island, New York • 1960s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

990L

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Super Short Summary

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt follows seventh grader Holling Hoodhood as he navigates junior high in the late 1960s. Holling's teacher, Mrs. Baker, assigns him Shakespearean plays to read while his classmates attend religious classes. Through challenges, including school bullies, family tensions, and unlikely friendships, Holling grows and learns valuable lessons against the backdrop of significant historical events. Sensitive topics include the Vietnam War.

Humorous

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.3

47,714 ratings

79%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt is highly praised for its rich character development, engaging historical context, and witty humor. While many appreciate the nuanced portrayal of adolescence and relationships, some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's lauded for its blend of heartfelt moments and humor within a vibrant 1960s setting.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wednesday Wars?

Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a mix of humor and historical context will appreciate Gary D. Schmidt's The Wednesday Wars. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos will find this book engaging due to its strong character development and nuanced exploration of adolescence in the 1960s.

4.3

47,714 ratings

79%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Long Island, New York • 1960s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

990L

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