Title: Restart
Author: Gordon Korman
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Themes: Award Winners, Bullying, Friendship
ISBN: 9781338053807
Publisher's Summary:
Restart by Gordon Korman is a thought-provoking novel that explores the power of second chances and self-discovery. Centered on thirteen-year-old Chase Ambrose, the story begins with Chase waking up in a hospital with complete amnesia after a fall from his home's roof. As he returns to middle school, Chase is confronted by a confusing mix of reactions from classmates—some fear him, others avoid him, and a few seem outright hostile. Little by little, Chase learns that before his accident, he was known as a notorious bully and the captain of the football team, someone both respected and disliked.
Stripped of his memories, Chase embarks on a journey to understand who he was and, more importantly, who he wants to become. He finds himself drawn away from his old group of friends and instead gravitates toward the school's video club, where he discovers new interests and starts building healthier relationships. The book is notable for its multiple points of view, allowing readers to see how Chase's actions have affected those around him and providing insights into the challenges of forgiveness, empathy, and personal growth.
Restart is an engaging, realistic fiction novel that prompts discussion about identity, redemption, and the impact of our choices. Its accessible writing style and relatable themes make it an excellent choice for classroom reading, offering students opportunities to reflect on their own actions and the possibility of change. Teachers will find this book a valuable resource for exploring character development and social-emotional learning with middle-grade readers.
