Dan Gutman's The Homework Machine is widely praised for its engaging narrative and unique premise, appealing to middle-grade readers. Reviewers commend its humorous yet thought-provoking exploration of technology and friendship. Some criticisms highlight predictable plot developments, but overall, it remains a fun and insightful read for young audiences.

Readers who would enjoy The Homework Machine by Dan Gutman are young, middle-grade students who appreciate clever, technology-themed plots. Fans of Louis Sachar's Holes or Andrew Clements' Frindle will find the story's humor, friendship dynamics, and ethical dilemmas engaging.

In The Homework Machine by Dan Gutman, four fifth-grade students—Sam, Kelsey, Judy, and Brenton—bond over a machine that completes their homework but face consequences as their teacher and peers grow suspicious. The story unfolds through police report tapes, highlighting themes of friendship, honesty, and the unintended consequences of relying on technology.

Humorous / Adventurous / Playful / Challenging / Suspenseful

- The Homework Machine by Dan Gutman was a 2007-2008 Young Hoosier Book Award nominee, which is an award curated by the Indiana Library Federation to promote recreational reading among elementary and middle school students.
- The novel was featured in Time for Kids, where it was highlighted as an engaging book for reluctant readers due to its fast-paced, entertaining narrative.
- Dan Gutman, the author, is known for incorporating elements of humor and technology in his works, aiming to engage kids who are avid users of tech gadgets, which is evident in The Homework Machine.

**Sam “Snik” Dawkins**  
A new student at Grand Canyon school, Snik is known for his cocky demeanor and sarcastic approach to homework. He channels his admiration for his Air Force father into a strong pro-military stance.

**Kelsey Donnelly**  
Kelsey, whose father died in a snowmobile accident, expresses her individuality through hair dye and piercings. Despite being called "trailer trash" by classmates, she becomes more assertive within the D Squad, standing by her friends.

**Judy Douglas**  
An academically gifted fifth grader aspiring to be a lawyer, Judy is in the gifted program and often perceived as "snotty" by peers. She navigates social pressures while maintaining her high grades.

**Brenton Damagatchi**  
A child prodigy and chess enthusiast, Brenton creates a homework machine named Belch. Lacking a social group at school, he eventually forms connections with fellow D Squad members.

**Miss Rasmussen**  
A new and enthusiastic teacher at Grand Canyon school, Miss Rasmussen emphasizes fun and group work in her classroom. She supports student individuality and is portrayed as kind and slightly naive.

**Ronnie Teotwawki**  
A loner who suspects the D Squad of mischief, Ronnie attempts to uncover their secret activities. He is persistent and resents the group's achievements, particularly Snik and Brenton.

**Police Chief Rebecca Fish**  
The police chief who narrates the introduction, Rebecca Fish is initially skeptical of the homework machine rumors. She is gruff but fair, eventually taking the D Squad seriously due to evidence they uncover.

Dan Gutman

Middle grade

Novel

The Homework Machine

Fiction

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Introduction-Chapter 2

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Chapters 3-4

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The Homework Machine

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