If you love stories about unlikely friendships and underdog heroes, you’ll get a kick out of The Unteachables. This book is packed with quirky characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and just enough heart to make you root for everyone - even the burnt-out teacher! Middle-graders, teachers, and fans of feel-good reads will especially enjoy watching these misfits discover their strengths and shake up the status quo in the best possible way.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers might tire of the familiar “misfit kids and burnt-out teacher” formula, and there are a few convenient twists that ask for a bit of suspension of disbelief. If you’re looking for super realistic depictions of school systems or nuanced portrayals of learning disabilities, this one might feel a bit too neat and tidy. Additionally, some of the adult-focused subplots may lose younger readers’ interest.

A funny and heartwarming read about second chances, teamwork, and seeing beyond labels. Not Korman’s most original, but a solid crowd-pleaser for middle grade and up!

About:

The Unteachables by Gordon Korman is a heartwarming story about Mr. Kermit, a burned-out teacher assigned to a class of misfit students who are just waiting for their time to leave school. However, as Mr. Kermit reluctantly starts to engage with the students, he discovers a second chance at teaching and the students find a sense of unity and purpose. Through individual strengths and empathy, the characters in the book come together to make a positive difference in each other's lives.

Characters:

The characters are well-rounded, showcasing personal struggles and growth, leading to a collaborative journey.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style combines humor with impactful themes, making it relatable and enjoyable for various age groups.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot follows a burned-out teacher who is forced to teach a class of misfits, leading to unexpected relationships and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting is an everyday middle school, which serves as a backdrop for the character-driven narrative.

Pacing:

The pacing is engaging, ensuring a balance between character exploration and advancing the narrative.

Don’t get me wrong. I’d cry too if I’d just figured out that Stepmonster is my mother. But at seven months old, I don’t think he’s processed that yet. He just cries. He cries when he’s hungry; he crie...

Notes:

Mr. Kermit was once a passionate and idealistic teacher but is now burned out and counting the days to retirement.

The Unteachables is a notorious class filled with misfits and students labeled as troublemakers.

The story is told from the perspectives of multiple characters, including students and teachers.

Kiana, a transfer student, joins the Unteachables and discovers friendship and belonging.

Parker, one of the students, struggles with reading but takes on adult responsibilities like driving his grandmother.

Aldo has a significant anger issue that he must confront as part of his character development.

Barnstorm is a former sports star whose academic struggles surface after an injury.

Mr. Kermit slowly reconnects with his passion for teaching through his students.

The book includes themes of redemption, understanding, and empathy.

It emphasizes that everyone, including teachers and students, can grow and learn from each other.

From The Publisher:

When the world's worst class of kids is paired with the world's worst teacher, will they torpedo each other or redeem themselves? "Funny and endearing"-Kirkus

January 2019

•

288 pages

Ratings (5)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (2)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (8):

Read It (6)
Want To Read (2)

What can you read after
The Unteachables?

See the list (26 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

The Unteachables

Gordon Korman

Who Would Like This Book: