Dead End in Norvelt

Dead End in Norvelt
by Jack Gantos

I have to say that I read this book last year before it was announced as a Newbery Medal winner and a Scott O'Dell award winner.  The Newbery Medal is for contribution to children's literature and the Scott O'Dell for outstanding historical fiction.  I loved the story.  The narration is easy to follow, as I am used to living with a young teenager, and the plot completely original.

I haven't written about it here, because, frankly the book is hard to describe.  It is basically about a boy, who's plans for a summer of adventure are curtailed when he is grounded and loaned out to the writer of the local obituaries.  I had a bit of trouble getting my son to bite when I suggested he read the novel.  But, because I rarely lead him astray he took a chance.

I just asked him what his thoughts on the book are.  He said, "Dead End in Norvelt was a great book, I should read it again.  I think the funniest part is the old guy who rides a tricycle and the time the old lady tries to help Jack with his nose bleeds."

The humor is dry, and at times even bizarre and the historical insight novel.  I just have to say, with this one you are just going to have to trust me...It is worth the time.