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272
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary
2002
Middle grade
12-16 years
690L
In Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements, 15-year-old Bobby Phillips wakes up to find himself invisible and, feeling abandoned, sneaks into the University of Chicago library where he meets Alicia, a girl who is blind. They become friends and, alongside their parents, seek to keep his condition secret while searching for a cure to restore Bobby’s visibility and prevent the family from being torn apart.
Mysterious
Challenging
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
27,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements offers compelling themes of invisibility and self-discovery. Readers appreciate the engaging plot and relatable characters. Critiques include the pacing and occasional lack of depth. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read for young adults, with a blend of mystery and emotional growth.
Readers who enjoy Andrew Clements' Things Not Seen are typically middle school to early high school students who appreciate thought-provoking, realistic fiction with a touch of the supernatural. Fans of Coraline by Neil Gaiman or Frindle by Andrew Clements himself will likely be captivated by the blend of everyday challenges and extraordinary circumstances.
27,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alicia Van Dorn
A smart and once-popular 15-year-old who became blind, forming a deep connection with Bobby, sharing a unique bond over their feelings of invisibility.
Emily Phillips
Bobby’s mother, a literature professor at the University of Chicago, who reevaluates her relationship with Bobby after a significant revelation.
David Phillips
Bobby’s father, a physicist at FermiLab, who approaches Bobby’s condition with scientific curiosity and works with others to find a solution.
Leo Van Dorn
Alicia’s father, an astronomy professor, who collaborates with David to solve the mystery of Bobby’s invisibility.
Julia Van Dorn
Alicia’s mother, an English Literature degree holder, who learns to grow and adapt to Bobby's unusual situation.
272
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary
2002
Middle grade
12-16 years
690L
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