Book Review: Paperboy

Book Review: Historical Fiction

Paperboy by Vince Vawter (240 pages)

1. Bibliography:

Vawter, V. (2014). Paperboy. Paw Prints.

2. Plot Summary: This historical fiction book encompasses the experiences of a young person living with a severe stutter. This story takes place in the southern United States during the 1950's and 1960's. That comes with its fair share of trials and tribulations. This is a coming of age book. The main character is an 11 years old boy who has picked up a paper route thus forcing him into a position to have to speak with people, which is a great challenge. Through the relationships he forms with paper route customers, you are able to connect and relate to them and their struggles, as well. Like all young people, Victor is trying to change and adapt to fit into a world that is oftentimes unforgiving and unkind. Although we may not experience exactly what Victor has, his strides, successes and failures are all so relatable and endear you to his experience. One thing that stuck with me from this book is that when you have a disability sometimes there is no overcoming and that is the reality no matter what effort, motivation or resources you have. This book is essentially a memoir, as the experiences of Victor were those of the author, Vince Vawter.

3. Critical Review: This books flows and is an easy read. It is told from the perspective of the main character, which endears you to him. The historical aspects that make this a piece of historical fiction come from the time period of living the the 1950's and 1960's. There are themes of segregation that run through this book. This is the perspective of a white adolescent in this time, it would be a totally different account if it was of a black adolescent.

4. Review Excerpt/s:

Newbery Medal Nominee

The Magnolia Award Nominee (6-8)

"An engaging and heartfelt presentation that never whitewashes the difficult time and situation as Little Man comes of age." - Kirkus Reviews

5. Connections:

This book takes place in the 50's and 60's during a time of segregation in the US. Compare the experiences of white and black people during this time.

This book highlights a disability that affects the character greatly in his life. This could extend to reading other books with characters that have disabilities. This is a great way to make sure students are "seen."

Book review by Barbara Jean Thompson.