Today I am excited to share my review of Holes by Louis Sachar. This was my first time reading this book and it didn't disappoint!
I picked this novel up recently at Half Price Books when I realized I don't own it and have never read it. Definitely a good purchase!
My first experience with Holes was seeing the 2003 movie starring Shia LeBeouf as Stanley. I loved this movie! I can definitely still sing the theme song basically word for word. Ha! I was surprised by how spot on the movie adaptation is to the book. It really stays true to the original story, dialogue and characters!
This book is a well deserved Newbery winner. It has an engaging story, exciting plot twists, and deeper themes that teach the audience worthwhile lessons. Plus, I think it's a fun read especially for young boys because of the characters and subject. I think it could get boys especially excited about reading.
'The bark on the tree was as soft as the skies.
"A lot of people don't believe in curses.
This book is so fun because of the clever and engaging plot. The storytelling is simple and exciting. It's easy to get wrapped up in the story and want to keep reading to find out what happens next. There are several pieces coming together as the novel progresses and it's fun to connect the dots. But not too complicated for kids to follow. I enjoyed the interwoven stories of Stanley, his great great grandfather, and the town of Green Lake, Texas. At first, it's hard to see how they will come together. But the climax and the ultimate connections are really neat!
The characters are all unique and memorable. Stanley is such a relatable protagonist. Haven't we all felt like we didn't belong? Had to learn how to defend ourselves against bullies of many kinds? The connection between true friends? The joy when truth is revealed? The pull of destiny? I also enjoyed Zero because he was so mysterious, but also kind and loyal. I enjoyed X-ray and Armpit's witty banter and humor. Twitch makes me laugh because he's a kid who enjoys stealing cars for fun. And Mr Pendanski just tries so hard but is so blind. He's funny. Probably my favorite character besides Stanley and Zero was Sam! Oh how I love that simple, kind man who was just trying to help other people out. Such a sad story for such a good person.
I was surprised by how mature this book is at times. Some more mature topics like racism, juvenile crime, and child abandonment are discussed. Stanley goes to Camp Green Lake as a punishment for breaking the law. The climax with Sam's fate is particularly dark. But it is also compelling and moving. The storytelling and simplicity makes this book worth reading for a younger audience. Potentially kids younger than 8-10 would be more scared than engaged with the story and the depth of themes. For me, these darker themes made the book that much more engaging and more impressive. I appreciated the way Sachar discusses hard topics within his more lighthearted story.
I really enjoyed this Newbery winning novel about friendship, building character, and discovering your destiny. Definitely a book worth reading–regardless of your age.
What are some of your favorite Newbery books?
Which should I read next?
the year the 100th winner is announced!
This is also one of my favorite Newbery novels. It's shockingly complex and, you're right, mature! I love the twisting of all the different timelines and how they interconnect.
I'm super excited you're joining me on this quest!! We should totally do some reflective joint posts. I miss writing with you!
Yes, I have read this, but didn't realise there had been a film of the story too. It was a good story and compelling enough to keep me as an adult reader engaged. Definitely not just a kid's book!
I'm thinking that I might set a reading goal for next year to read one middle grade book a month. I've never read this one, can you believe it? It sounds like something I would enjoy!
I haven't read this since that film came out! Your review highlighted why the book (and the film) were so great. Thanks for putting a smile on my face and good luck with the heat, it's getting bad this week here too!
Thank you! It is a great novel (and film). And thanks–I feel like summer should be ending but we are heading into the worst!
Nice! It is one of those pairs where I like both book and movie!