As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth (by Lynne Rae Perkins)
common sense media says
Summer adventure teen boys and parents will both love.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this book is the perfect summertime read. It would make a great read aloud, as families could commiserate over the bad luck that follows Ry, his grandfather, his parents, and even the family dogs, and celebrate the kindness they all find as they deal with setbacks that could discourage anyone. The story lends itself to discussions of the "what would you do if that happened to you?" variety. There's barely any mature content to speak of (no drinking, no violence, almost no swearing), but the story will resonate most with teens and up.
Educational value:
Not applicable.
Positive role models:
Fifteen-year-old Ry discovers his own resiliency and resourcefulness when he finds himself stranded and alone, but it's a good samaritan named Del who becomes Ry's inspiration. Del is described as someone who dances to the beat of his own inner harmonica, and from him Ry learns the satisfaction of a noble act, and the meaning of the word "impossible."
Violence:
Not applicable.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Very minor: two uses of "damn," and one of "s--t."
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
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