'The Car' by Gary Paulsen follows the story of a 14-year-old boy named Terry who embarks on a cross-country journey with two Vietnam war veterans in a kit car. explores themes of friendship, mentorship, and self-discovery as Terry learns valuable life lessons from the veterans while working on restoring the car. However, some readers found the plot to be rushed and unfinished, leaving them wanting more in terms of character development and story resolution. Despite this, the book manages to engage readers with its unique premise and interesting interactions between the characters.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of parental neglect, gambling, PTSD, and the introduction of a sex worker.
From The Publisher:
Neglected by his parents, fourteen-year-old Terry Anders is used to taking care of things on his own. He even manages to assemble a car kit by himself. When the car is finished, Terry sets off from Cleveland to Portland in search of an uncle he barely remembers. Along the way, he is joined by a wise Vietnam vet who turns his journey into an adventure in learning.
Each book includes a reader's guide.
What can you read after
The Car?
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