Common Sense Media Review
Mature themes, positive messages in dark but funny mystery.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 27 parent reviews
Parents say that while the book has been praised for its engaging storytelling and complex themes, it also contains inappropriate content for younger readers, including dark topics, violence, and sexual references which some feel are unnecessary for the narrative. Teachers and parents express that it is suitable for older children, particularly when accompanied by discussions to help contextualize the heavier subject matter, making it a valuable read for developing critical thinking and understanding of serious issues.
- dark themes
- inappropriate content
- valuable discussions
- older readers
- engaging storytelling
Summarized with AI
Based on 119 kid reviews
Kids say that this book is a captivating and adventurous read that blends humor, mystery, and life lessons, particularly appealing to tweens and older children. While many praise its intriguing plot and character development, some express concerns about dark themes and mature content, suggesting it may not be suitable for younger readers without guidance.
- engaging story
- age-appropriate concerns
- humor and suspense
- character development
- mixed reviews on content
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In HOLES, 14-year-old Stanley Yelnats is unjustly sent to a juvenile detention camp in the middle of the desert after being accused of stealing a pair of sneakers. Under the watchful eyes of the harsh adults who run Camp Green Lake, he and the other boys are forced to spend their days digging holes in the sweltering heat. When Stanley discovers that they're actually digging for treasure, a mystery starts to unfold that will lead all the way back to a 19th-century outlaw called Kissin' Kate—and Stanley's own chaotic family history.
Is It Any Good?
A likable hero, a 19th-century outlaw, a ragtag group of delinquents, and a current-day mystery combine in this rollicking kids' adventure. Louis Sachar's multiple award-winning Holes is certainly fun, but it isn't afraid to get a little dark in places, and the legitimate sense of danger will likely appeal to older kids and tweens without pushing the boundaries too far for parents. Its intertwined stories gradually build the sense of mystery, while the day-to-day interactions between the boys in the camp have plenty to offer along the way.
There are certainly dark themes—child abuse, racism—and there are cruel figures lurking in the shadows. But they only serve to make readers root for the hero even more, and Sachar sprinkles in enough humor and heart to keep the tone relatively light. The concept of "holes" takes on multiple meanings in the book. They're not just physical, they're metaphorical holes of things missing from the boys' lives. Witnessing them gradually start to get filled is one of the book's most enjoyable parts.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of fate vs. choice in Holes. Why does Stanley believe that he and his family have bad luck? How does that affect the way he approaches life? Do you think his outlook changes as the story goes on? Do you believe in fate in real life?
What are some of Stanley's positive characteristics? What are some of Zero's strong points? How do they demonstrate empathy and integrity? How are they affected by their backgrounds, and how do they complement each other?
Have you seen the movie adaptation of Holes? If so, how is the film different from the book? If not, does the book make you want to try the movie? What are some of the challenges of adapting a book for the screen?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Adventure
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Empathy , Integrity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Farrar, Straus and Giroux
- Publication date : August 20, 1998
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 9 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Newbery Medal and Honors
- Last updated : May 11, 2026
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