Just Like That

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2021
387
Novel • Fiction
Eastern seaboard, USA • 1960s
2021
Middle grade
12-18 years
Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt follows a young person named Meryl Lee as she navigates the challenges of a new school and environment after significant personal loss. Set in the turbulent backdrop of the 1960s, the story explores themes of grief, resilience, and friendship.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt captivates with its engaging prose and well-drawn characters. Critics praise its emotional depth and exploration of complex themes. Some feel the pacing is uneven, but the book's ability to address difficult topics resonates well. Overall, it’s a poignant and memorable read, though not without minor flaws.
A reader who would enjoy Gary D. Schmidt's Just Like That is likely drawn to coming-of-age stories filled with emotional depth and historical settings. Fans of Markus Zusak's The Book Thief or Lois Lowry's Number the Stars would appreciate its exploration of resilience, friendship, and growth against a backdrop of change.
387
Novel • Fiction
Eastern seaboard, USA • 1960s
2021
Middle grade
12-18 years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!