Flying Solo

Ralph Fletcher
38 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 1998

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Book Brief

Ralph Fletcher

Flying Solo

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

146

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

•

Children`s Literature

•

Education
Setting

Classroom • 1990s

Theme
Guilt

•

Childhood & Youth

•

Grief
Topic
Grief & Death

•

Education
First Publication Year

1998

Publisher

Yearling

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

590L

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Super Short Summary

Flying Solo by Ralph Fletcher tells the story of a sixth-grade class at Paulson Elementary School who, when their substitute teacher fails to arrive, decide to run the class themselves for the day. The narrative unfolds through different students' perspectives as they navigate this unique situation, addressing themes such as responsibility, tolerance, and acceptance, all while dealing with lingering emotions from a classmate's recent passing. The story includes the death of a child and resultant grief.

Contemplative

Emotional

Inspirational

Bittersweet

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.0

3,657 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Flying Solo by Ralph Fletcher is praised for its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, offering an insightful look into adolescence and classroom dynamics. Reviews highlight its realistic portrayal of self-discovery, though some critique the pacing. Overall, it's lauded as a thought-provoking read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Flying Solo?

Flying Solo by Ralph Fletcher will captivate readers who enjoy realistic middle-grade fiction featuring school life and interpersonal dynamics. Fans of Sharon Creech’s Walk Two Moons or Andrew Clements’s Frindle will appreciate its exploration of friendship, responsibility, and self-discovery. Ideal for ages 8-12.

4.0

3,657 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

The main protagonist who is central to the novel's events and perspectives, known for her earlier mutism following a personal tragedy.

A student who often teases others and grapples with the challenges of having a military parent, developing a notable bond with his pet dog, Barkley.

The recognized leader of Mr. Fabiano’s class, who is known for being responsible and taking charge during the teacher's absence.

A student outspoken against the class’s self-management, influenced by her lawyer father and her ambitions of becoming a Supreme Court justice.

A student with a challenging home life, who is more reserved but forms a quiet connection with Rachel, contrasting with other characters through his gentle demeanor.

Rachel’s best friend and intermediary, who supports Rachel by communicating on her behalf and showing acts of kindness.

A boy who had a significant but indirect impact on the story and characters, having inspired profound reflection and change through his unexpected death.

The absent sixth-grade teacher, respected by his students, whose influence and encouragement left a lasting impression on the class.

Book Details
Pages

146

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

•

Children`s Literature

•

Education
Setting

Classroom • 1990s

Theme
Guilt

•

Childhood & Youth

•

Grief
Topic
Grief & Death

•

Education
First Publication Year

1998

Publisher

Yearling

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

590L

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