TL;DR
Chase Ambrose wakes up in a hospital with no memory of his past. As he pieces together his life, he discovers he was a bully, and now faces the challenge of starting over and becoming a better person.
Table of contents
Open Table of contents
Author & Writing Background
Gordon Korman is a prolific and acclaimed author of young adult fiction, known for his humorous and insightful stories that tackle relevant issues facing teenagers. With over 90 published books, Korman’s work often explores themes of identity, friendship, and personal growth. His engaging writing style and relatable characters have made him a favorite among young readers.
Key Takeaways
Amnesia and Identity
Chase’s amnesia forces him to confront the blank slate of his past and grapple with the person he was before the accident.
Bullying and Redemption
The book explores the consequences of bullying and the possibility of redemption as Chase tries to make amends for his past actions.
Friendship and Forgiveness
Chase forms new friendships that challenge his preconceived notions and teach him the value of empathy and forgiveness.
Family Dynamics
Chase’s relationship with his family is complex, as they struggle to reconcile the son they knew with the person he is trying to become.
Second Chances
The book emphasizes the importance of second chances and the power of personal growth and transformation.
School Culture and Peer Pressure
Restart examines the dynamics of school culture, highlighting the pressures teenagers face and the impact of social hierarchy.
Making Choices
Chase’s journey is a constant process of making choices, as he decides what kind of person he wants to be and how to navigate the consequences of his past.
The Power of Memory
The book explores the role of memory in shaping identity and the challenges of rebuilding a life without a past.
FAQ about Restart
What age group is Restart appropriate for?
Restart is generally recommended for readers aged 10-14, but its themes of bullying, redemption, and personal growth can resonate with a wider audience.
Is Restart part of a series?
No, Restart is a standalone novel.
What are some similar books to Restart?
Readers who enjoyed Restart might also like Wonder by R.J. Palacio, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, or Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli.
Restart Quotes
- “We all have secrets, Joel. Some of us just hide them better than others.”
- “Everyone deserves a chance to start over.”
- “The problem with living so long in one place is that you forget what it’s like to be new somewhere else. Everybody knows you, and they’ve already made up their minds about you.”