Gary Paulsen's Lawn Boy has garnered praise for its humor, engaging story, and the relatable, enterprising young protagonist. Critics appreciate the book's easy-to-read style and life lessons on entrepreneurship. However, some find its plot simplistic and predictably structured, appealing predominantly to younger audiences. Overall, it's a charming read with valuable insights.

Readers who enjoy Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen are typically young teens interested in realistic, humorous coming-of-age stories. Fans of books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney and Frindle by Andrew Clements will appreciate Paulsen's engaging narrative and relatable protagonist.

In Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen, a 12-year-old boy receives an old lawn mower from his grandmother for his birthday, leading him to start a lawn mowing business. As his business expands, he meets a stockbroker named Arnold, who invests his earnings in stocks. The boy's investments and business ventures accidentally make him wealthy, including owning a stake in a heavyweight boxer, Joey Pow.

Humorous / Playful / Nostalgic / Inspirational

- Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen, published in 2007, is a humorous novel that reflects Paulsen's knack for storytelling grounded in everyday teenage experiences, showcasing his approachable style and wit.
- The book was named a Notable Children's Book by the American Library Association, highlighting its appeal and significance in children's literature.

**The Boy**  
A level-headed 12-year-old from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, who starts a mowing business and learns about finance and community.

**Arnold Howell**  
A stockbroker with a quirky appearance and 70's flair, who helps the boy's business by paying him with stock investments.

**Joseph Powdermilk Jr. (Joey Pow)**  
A heavyweight boxer sponsored by the boy, known for his enormous size and straightforward, honest approach.

**Grandma**  
The boy's eccentric maternal grandmother, whose strange yet thoughtful advice reveals years of wisdom.

**The Boy’s Parents**  
Intelligent and caring, they struggle financially but focus on their son's growth and well-being, embodying family support and compassion.

Gary Paulsen

Middle grade

Novella

Tales to Tickle the Funnybone

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Lawn Boy Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Foreword-Chapter 2

Lawn Boy Foreword-Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-6

Lawn Boy Chapters 3-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

Lawn Boy Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-13

Lawn Boy Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-15

Lawn Boy Chapters 14-15 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Lawn Boy Character Analysis

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Themes

Lawn Boy Themes

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Lawn Boy Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Lawn Boy Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Lawn Boy Essay Topics

Lawn Boy

Before You Read

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