57 pages • 1 hour read
Jerry SpinelliCrash
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1996A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Crash by Jerry Spinelli follows seventh-grade athlete Crash Coogan, who transitions from a bully to becoming best friends with Penn Webb, a former victim. Through various social and family challenges, including his involvement in sports and his relationship with his sister Abby, Crash learns the value of friendship and empathy. Triggering topics include bullying and a family member's stroke.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Jerry Spinelli's Crash paints a poignant portrait of middle school life, vividly exploring themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth. Critics praise Spinelli's relatable characters and humorous writing style. Some find the plot predictable and feel secondary characters lack depth. However, fans appreciate the book's heartfelt messages and engaging narrative.
Who Should Read Crash?
Readers who delight in realistic middle-grade fiction, particularly those who appreciated novels like Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli, will be captivated by Crash. Themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth stand at the center, making it a compelling read for ages 8-12.
RecommendedReading Age
9-12yearsLexile Level
560L