Gordon Korman's book "Don't Care High" is a hilarious and relatable tale that follows the adventures of Paul Abramson, a ninth-grader who finds himself in a school where apathy runs rampant and students have no interest in academics. The story takes place in a fictional high school named Don Carey High, where Paul must navigate this unique educational environment.
Paul is an ambitious student who values education and is determined to excel academically. However, he quickly realizes that Don Carey High is unlike any school he has attended before. Students rarely attend class, and the teachers seem uninterested in their students' learning. Frustrated by the lack of motivation among his peers, Paul decides to take matters into his own hands.
In an effort to inspire his fellow students to care about their education, Paul starts a movement called "Don't Care." Together with his friends, he launches creative campaigns and demonstrations to spread his message and awaken Don Carey High from its apathetic slumber.
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Gordon Korman's witty and engaging writing style captures the essence of high school life and explores important themes, such as the value of education and the power of determination. The characters he creates are diverse and relatable, adding depth and authenticity to the story. Readers will find themselves cheering for Paul as he strives to transform Don Carey High.
Overall, "Don't Care High" is a lighthearted and humorous novel that offers entertainment as well as thought-provoking moments. Korman skillfully balances comedy with important messages about education and the impact that one person can have on a community. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for an enjoyable and inspiring story set in the chaotic world of high school.
What are readers saying?
Don't Care High by Gordon Korman has received a variety of reviews, reflecting both positive and negative opinions on the book. The story follows Paul, a high school student who becomes the president of a school where students have adopted an apathetic attitude towards their studies.
Many reviewers found Don't Care High to be entertaining and appreciated the humor and wit showcased in the book. They enjoyed the lighthearted approach to the story and praised Korman's ability to capture the essence of high school life, with its cliques and social dynamics. The comedic elements were highlighted as a strong point, making the book a fun and quick read for many readers.
However, some reviewers felt that the characters in the book lacked depth and development. They believed that the story focused too much on humor at the expense of well-rounded characters and meaningful plotlines. Some readers found the humor to be forced and unrealistic, which made it difficult for them to connect with the story.
Another point raised in some reviews was the outdated portrayal of high school life in Don't Care High. Some readers felt that the book did not accurately represent the modern challenges and issues faced by today's teenagers. The story was seen as too simplistic and not reflective of the complexities of contemporary high school experiences.
Furthermore, a few reviews mentioned that while the book was intended for a young audience, the writing style seemed more appropriate for a middle-grade readership. Some readers felt that the book lacked the depth and complexity necessary for older teens to fully engage with the story.
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