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336
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2020
Middle grade
8-12 years
580L
Wink by Rob Harrell follows seventh grader Ross Maloy, who navigates middle school while undergoing radiation treatment for a rare eye cancer. Balancing friendships, school challenges, and his passion for drawing, Ross finds solace in music, eventually forming a band with his friends. Through these experiences, Ross learns to embrace his differences and focus on the people and activities he loves.
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Humorous
Emotional
Hopeful
7,027 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Wink by Rob Harrell has garnered praise for its heartfelt and humorous portrayal of a middle school student diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. Readers appreciate the relatable characters and insightful handling of a tough subject with levity. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven and the plot sometimes predictable. Overall, Wink is celebrated for its emotional depth and engaging narrative.
Readers who would enjoy Rob Harrell's Wink are typically middle schoolers who appreciate stories blending humor with heartfelt themes. Fans of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid and R.J. Palacio's Wonder will find a kindred spirit in this tale of resilience, comedy, and navigating school life.
7,027 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Abby Peterson
Ross's best friend known for her bold personality and love of eccentric clothing and music, who encourages Ross to embrace his differences and cease caring about others' opinions.
Jimmy Jenkins
Ross's large and abrasive classmate, who initially seems to be a typical bully but gradually reveals a more complex and supportive side.
Ross’s Father and Linda Maloy
Sources of stability in Ross's life, with his father being a busy trial lawyer and Linda, his stepmother, showing care and understanding without expecting to replace Ross's late mother.
Frank
A radiation tech passionate about rock music, who mentors Ross and encourages him to express himself authentically through music.
Jerry Thompson
A retiree undergoing radiotherapy, who connects with Ross over their shared cancer experience and offers wisdom and support.
Sarah Kennedy
A popular girl at Ross’s school and his longtime crush, whose outward perfection eventually reveals a more superficial nature.
Isaac Nalibotsky
Ross's friend, who is absent for much of the story due to feeling overwhelmed by Ross's cancer diagnosis but later reconciles with Ross and Abby.
336
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2020
Middle grade
8-12 years
580L
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