About This Book
"Crash" by Jerry Spinelli is a compelling middle-grade novel about John Coogan, a seventh-grader whose identity is wrapped up in being tough and aggressive. His worldview is challenged by the arrival of Penn Webb, a gentle Quaker boy, and further complicated when his beloved grandfather suffers a stroke. This book explores Crash's journey of self-discovery as he grapples with the meaning of friendship, family bonds, and empathy. It's an excellent read for children aged 10-14, offering a nuanced look at character development and the impact of personal choices. Parents will appreciate its themes of kindness, resilience, and emotional growth.
Seventh-grader John "Crash" Coogan has always been comfortable with his tough, aggressive behavior, until his relationship with an unusual Quaker boy and his grandfather's stroke make him consider the meaning of friendship and the importance of family.
illness
bullying
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Crash's understanding of "tough" change throughout the story?
2
What qualities make Penn Webb a unique and important friend for Crash?
3
How does the grandfather's stroke impact Crash and his family?
4
Have you ever had to rethink something you believed about yourself or others?
5
What does this book teach us about empathy and standing up for what's right?
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