A classic story growing up and finding one's way by joining a particular group. The

This book might be getting a little dated. There are still some aspects of the novel that students can relate to, but other things may need explanations.

It’s not a perfect novel. Teenagers are unrealistically introspective and perceptive, the level of the prose is inconsistent, and the transformative event at the church seems contrived. To me, its greatest strength is the variety and depth of the characters on both sides. They fit into their respective worlds in different ways, bound by their circumstances to a unique extent. Darry, for instance, has other things going for him and might have been very different had he not had his brothers to take care of; he seems in that world, but not entirely part of it. He has the desire and determination to succeed as a father figure, but not the maturity. Dallas relishes his “hood” identity. Sodapop is basically happy, picking those elements that suit him. Ponyboy is more deeply aware of his position than the others, while Johnny has nearly been crushed by the insecurity of his existence. Meanwhile, the Socs, too, have their roles to play and images to maintain. The ending of the novel manages a difficult task: it offers rays of hope and possibility without denying the very real, very tall obstacles to a better life for Ponyboy and his friends and to better understanding between people. ( )

The Outsiders is a great book. This novel is about 2 different sides of a town who dislike each other because of where they live. One side of town is a rich town and the group or gang there call themselves Socs. The other side of town is kinda like the more poor broken down sight and the gang there call themselves Greasers. The gangs really hate each other and thinks that they are nothing alike but little do they know they are just alike in many ways. This novel is great for the ages 12 and up. I really enjoyed reading this book. ( )

Effectiveness: 3 The book was effective for the Teen Problem Book project.
Entertainment: 3 The book was fine; not good, not bad.
Comments: It's a fine book, easy to read both content and length-wise. Although I think you might be able to find a better fitting book for the assignment, this book works fine. ( )