Quick Take

Nora Tucker is looking forward to summer vacation in Wolf Creek--two months of swimming, popsicles, and brushing up on her journalism skills for the school paper. But when two inmates break out of the town's maximum security prison, everything changes. Doors are locked, helicopters fly over the woods, and police patrol the school grounds. Worst of all, everyone is on edge, and fear brings out the worst in some people Nora has known her whole life. Even if the inmates are caught, she worries that home might never feel the same. Told in letters, poems, text messages, news stories, and comics--a series of documents Nora collects for the Wolf Creek Community Time Capsule Project--Breakout is a thrilling story that will leave readers thinking about who's really welcome in the places we call home.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Breakout

Introduction

"Breakout" by Kate Messner is a thrilling story that explores the impact of a prison break on a small town. Through letters, poems, text messages, news stories, and comics, the book delves into the perspectives of various characters and raises important questions about racism and systemic oppression. Readers have found the book engaging, thought-provoking, and a must-purchase for intermediate and middle grades classrooms and libraries.

About Kate Messner

Kate Messner is an award-winning author, TED 2012 speaker, and former middle school English teacher. She has written several books for children, including "The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z.," "Sugar and Ice," and "Eye of the Storm." Messner's writing style is described as authentic, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for the targeted age level. She is also known for her ability to tackle difficult topics such as racism and oppression in her books.

Analysis of Views

Engaging and thought-provoking: Readers praise the book for its engaging and thought-provoking storyline. They find it one of the best books for middle-grade readers, with a multi-genre approach that keeps them hooked.
Addressing complex issues: The book delves into deeper issues of racism and systemic oppression in a way that is appropriate for the targeted age level. Readers appreciate the way Messner tackles these topics without being preachy, making it a must-purchase for classrooms and libraries.
Different perspectives: The book features multiple perspectives from characters of different backgrounds, including Elidee, one of the protagonists. The use of various formats such as letters, text messages, news stories, and comics adds depth to the story and allows readers to gain insights from different points of view.
Masterful storytelling: Readers are impressed with Messner's ability to weave prejudice and systemic racism throughout the plot without losing the reader's interest. The inclusion of Hamilton lyrics adds an extra layer of depth and enjoyment to the story.
Educational value: The book serves as a window and mirror for students, providing them with a glimpse into the experiences of people of color. It raises important questions about racism and oppression that students need to consider and discuss with others.

Reasons for Recommendation

Thought-provoking storyline: Readers recommend "Breakout" for its engaging storyline that tackles complex issues such as racism and systemic oppression. They find it thought-provoking and appreciate the way Messner addresses these topics in an appropriate manner for middle-grade readers.
Different perspectives: The book's use of multiple perspectives from characters of different backgrounds adds depth to the story and provides readers with a broader understanding of the issues at hand. This feature makes it a valuable addition to classrooms and libraries.
Masterful storytelling: Readers praise Messner's ability to weave prejudice and systemic racism throughout the plot without becoming preachy. They find her storytelling masterful and enjoy the inclusion of Hamilton lyrics as an added bonus.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Length: Some readers find the book too long, with unnecessary letters and poetic reflections that detract from the main storyline. They feel that certain parts could have been abbreviated without losing any insights.
Didactic tone: A few readers feel that the book becomes didactic at times, with characters quoting their teachers or overemphasizing certain points. They prefer books that are more subtle in their messaging.

Conclusion

"Breakout" by Kate Messner is a highly recommended book that explores the impact of a prison break on a small town through letters, poems, text messages, news stories, and comics. Readers appreciate the engaging storyline, thought-provoking nature of the book, and its ability to address complex issues such as racism and systemic oppression in an appropriate manner for middle-grade readers. While some readers find certain aspects too long or didactic, overall "Breakout" is praised for its masterful storytelling and educational value.