Age: Middle School
Recognition: 2019 Vernon Area Library booktalk for 6th/7th grade, 2021 Caudill nominee
History: 1950s
LGBTQ:

Spoiler

gay father, gay friend

Math: Logic puzzles and riddles
Tough Issue: Racism

Although there was so much going on, Johnson manages to round everything up for a really impactful ending. I would absolutely recommend this to a strong reader with diverse reading tastes who doesn't mind a challenge and/or enjoys classic literature. Personally as a slower reader, there were some lagging moments and the deluge of tough issues weigh the story down for a reader that is more accustomed to fast-paced thrillers and sci fi.

Important and incredibly well written (probably why so many adults are into it) but with a narrow audience.