Common Sense Media Review
Story of ostracized kid a timeless fave of teens, preteens.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 37 parent reviews
Parents say this book is widely recognized for its powerful themes and emotional storytelling, but many express concern about the violence, substance use, and tough scenarios that could be unsettling for young readers. Despite these concerns, it is often praised for its profound impact on youth and the relevance of its messages regarding class struggle and personal connection.
- emotional storytelling
- violence concerns
- themes of class
- impactful for youth
- relevant messages
- strong character connection
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 313 kid reviews
Kids say this book is an emotional and engaging story that explores themes of friendship, class struggles, and the harsh realities of life, while also touching upon substance use and violence. Many find the characters relatable and the lessons impactful, making it a memorable read despite concerns about its suitability for younger audiences and the presence of mature themes.
- emotional impact
- relatable characters
- themes of friendship
- substance use
- class struggles
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE OUTSIDERS has been one of the most popular book among teens and preteens since it came out in 1967. Ponyboy and his Greaser gang fight rival gang the Socs (short for "Socials," the wealthier, more preppie kids) and try to make a place for themselves in the world. The juvenile delinquent characters are fully and humanely developed in this realistic look at life, death, and growing up, told from a teen's point of view. The book was based on the author's high school experience in Tulsa, OK, in 1965, but the time and setting are not specified in the text.
Is It Any Good?
In the battle to get teens to read, The Outsiders is a nuclear missile. Any literary missteps -- like some too-easy plot resolutions -- are overcome by the power of author S.E. Hinton's honest teen point of view (she wrote it at age 16), which rings so true to young readers.
Many teens say this is the first book they ever enjoyed reading, even though it's often required in school. Hinton's insight into teen angst may explain why adolescents identify with Ponyboy so strongly. Readers find plenty of action and an idyllic view of friendship, a major concern for teens. Teenagers love this book; it teaches them that they can enjoy reading, as Ponyboy already knows.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why this book resonates with preteens and teens. Why has it remained so popular for more than 40 years?
What do you think happens to Ponyboy after the end of the novel?
If you've seen Francis Ford Coppola's 1983 movie based on the book, which do you like better, and why?
Why do you think The Outsiders is often required reading in school?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Coming of Age
- Topics : Animals , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Penguin Group
- Publication date : April 24, 1967
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 14
- Number of pages : 156
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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