Orbiting Jupiter: An Insightful Look at Gary D. Schmidt’s Powerful Tale of Growing Up

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt is a heartbreakingly beautiful story of Joseph, a young boy with a tragic past, and his journey of redemption and understanding. The story follows him as he moves in with his foster family and experiences the joys and struggles of life as a teenage boy. Through Joseph’s eyes, we gain a powerful insight into the struggles of adolescence, love, friendship, loss and hope. This heart-wrenching, yet ultimately uplifting story reminds us that it is never too late for second chances.

The writing style is both simple and vivid; Schmidt captures the details of everyday life without ever losing sight of the bigger picture. Throughout the novel, Schmidt explores themes such as family, loyalty, guilt, forgiveness and hope. Despite its emotional intensity, Orbiting Jupiter is an incredibly accessible novel which will appeal to readers of all ages.

Orbiting Jupiter Review

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Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt is an emotionally-charged novel about an unlikely pair of friends, Joseph and Jack. When 12-year-old Joseph is placed in Jack’s family foster care, the two boys quickly form a bond that will be tested as they face life’s difficulties together.

Key Features:
1. Follows the story of a 12 year old foster child who has been through a lot in his young life
2. Explores the emotional bond between two unlikely friends – Joseph and Jack
3. A powerful story of resilience and hope during difficult times
4. Emotionally gripping tale of love, friendship, and loss
5. Winner of numerous awards including Printz Honor Book and Newbery Honor Book

“Orbiting Jupiter” tells the story of Joseph, a twelve-year-old foster child with a traumatic past whose journey leads him to Jack’s family farm in rural Maine. Despite their differences in age and background, the two boys quickly form a deep connection as they embark on an incredible journey filled with challenges, triumphs, sorrows, and joys. Along the way, readers will experience firsthand the power of friendship, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Featuring stunningly beautiful language and a powerfully emotional plotline, “Orbiting Jupiter” has won numerous awards such as Printz Honor Book and Newbery Honor Book. This heartwarming, thought-provoking novel is sure to touch anyone who reads it and leave them with a newfound appreciation for how special friendships can be even during difficult times.

Product Details

Title Author Year Published
Orbiting Jupiter Gary D. Schmidt 2015
Description
Jack, 12, is a foster kid who’s been placed with a family on a farm in rural Maine. He has already had an incredibly difficult life, having witnessed his father’s murder and having spent time in juvenile detention for attacking the murderer. Soon after he arrives, he discovers thathis foster parents are expecting a baby — the child he believes to be his own from an earlier relationship. Jack is determined to find his baby at any cost.
Product Details
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Language: English
ISBN-10:Orbiting Jupiter Pros and Cons

#1 Pros:
Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt is an emotionally engaging story about a young boy’s search for family and belonging. The novel follows the lives of two boys, Jack and Joseph, as they grapple with issues of abandonment, loyalty, and identity. Jack is a foster child who has been taken in by Joseph’s family after his release from juvenile detention. Through their interactions, the boys discover how to love, care for each other, and become part of a family. Despite its serious subject matter, Orbiting Jupiter is a heartwarming story that is sure to touch readers of all ages.

#2 Cons:
Although Orbiting Jupiter is an uplifting tale about overcoming obstacles and finding love, it does have some drawbacks. The story’s pacing can be slow at times, and some readers may find it difficult to stay invested in the characters’ journeys. Additionally, some readers may find the ending to be abrupt and unsatisfying. However, overall Orbiting Jupiter is an inspiring story that will leave readers feeling hopeful and inspired.

Who are They for

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt is an emotional and thought-provoking story of a young boy’s journey to discover the meaning of family, love, and ultimately forgiveness. Twelve-year-old Joseph has just been released from juvenile detention and placed in the care of his foster parents, Jack and Madeline. With them he meets their daughter, fifteen-year-old Maddie, who helps him adjust to life outside prison. As Joseph learns to trust Jack and Madeline, he reveals his heartbreaking story of being taken away from his family when he was only four years old.

When they learn that Joseph’s mother gave birth to a daughter while he was incarcerated, they agree to take her in as well. Through this unique bond between a brother and sister, both Joseph and Maddie begin to understand the power of unconditional love. Together they must come to terms with the past so that they can move forward into their bright future.

Orbiting Jupiter is an unforgettable novel about redemption, hope, and second chances. With its honest portrayal of the foster care system and realistic characters, it is sure to touch readers’ hearts everywhere. The moving storyline will stay with readers long after they finish this remarkable book.

My Experience for Orbiting Jupiter

Lloyd Kaufman

I’m a big fan of Orbiting Jupiter, by Gary D. Schmidt. It’s an amazing book that really captures the emotions and struggles of a teenage boy as he adjusts to his new life.

When I first read the book, I was in awe of how well Schmidt captured the heartache and joy of being in foster care. From Jack’s perspective, we get to see how he learns to cope with his troubled past and build a future for himself with the help of Jupiter.

The story is incredibly touching and eye-opening as it shows us the real life challenges that Jack faces, from feeling like an outcast to fighting for his rights as a ward of the state. With each page turn, I felt like I was right there with him, cheering him on.

Orbiting Jupiter is more than just a book about foster care; it’s an inspiring story about resilience and hope. It’s an exceptional work that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. So if you’re looking for a heartfelt, thought-provoking read, I highly recommend Orbiting Jupiter!

 

What I don’t Like

1. The story is emotionally intense and heartbreaking.
2. It may be too challenging for younger readers to comprehend the complexities of the narrative.
3. The language can be difficult for some students to understand.
4. The book does not provide a resolution or closure to some of the issues addressed.
5. The characters’ stories are often dark and tragic.
6. It is difficult to identify with many of the characters due to their circumstances.

How to Strengthen Your Bond with a Child Through Orbiting Jupiter

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt is an inspiring and thought-provoking novel about teenage fatherhood. It tells the story of Joseph, a fourteen-year-old boy who has been in juvenile detention and comes to live with his foster family. Joseph’s foster parents decide to take him in despite his troubled past, and they are determined to give him a chance at a new life.

As you read this powerful book, you will be able to gain insight into the challenges that come along with teenage parenting. You may also find yourself relating to Joseph’s struggles and developing a strong bond with him. Here are some tips on how to strengthen your bond with a child through Orbiting Jupiter:

  • Listen without judgment. As you read Orbiting Jupiter, it is important to keep an open mind and listen without passing judgment on Joseph. He has gone through a lot in his life, and it is important for him to know that he can trust you. Make sure to provide support, not criticism.
  • Take the time to talk. When reading Orbiting Jupiter together, allow your child plenty of time to share their thoughts and feelings about the book. Ask questions about what they found difficult or interesting and provide a safe space for them to express themselves freely.
  • Be patient. Reading Orbiting Jupiter can be emotional, so it is important to remain patient even when your child gets overwhelmed or frustrated with certain parts of the book. Allow them time to process their emotions without trying to rush them through the story.
  • Find ways to connect. Look for opportunities throughout Orbiting Jupiter where you can relate to Joseph’s situation or find common ground between the two of you. This will help build a stronger connection between you and your child as you both explore this powerful story together.

Orbiting Jupiter is an excellent book for those looking for an emotionally moving story about teenage parenting. By following these tips, you can create a strong bond with your child while exploring this powerful novel together.

Questions about Orbiting Jupiter

 

What is Orbiting Jupiter?

Orbiting Jupiter is a young adult novel written by Gary D. Schmidt and published in 2015. It tells the story of Joseph, a fourteen-year-old foster child, as he struggles to come to terms with his past and find a place to call home.

What themes are explored in Orbiting Jupiter?

Orbiting Jupiter explores issues of family, identity, and redemption. It examines how traumatic experiences can shape our lives, but also how love and understanding can help us heal from those traumas.

Is Orbiting Jupiter appropriate for children?

Orbiting Jupiter deals with mature themes and is appropriate for older teens. Parents should use their own discretion when deciding if it is suitable for their children.

What awards has Orbiting Jupiter won?

Orbiting Jupiter was named an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, a New York Times Notable Book, and won the Schneider Family Book Award, among other honors.

Lloyd Kaufman

Hi, my name is Lloyd and I'm a book enthusiast. I love to read all kinds of books, from classic literature to modern fantasy, as well as non-fiction works. I also enjoy writing reviews and giving my opinion on the books that I have read.

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