48 pages 1 hour read

Rebecca Stead

The List of Things That Will Not Change

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The List of Things That Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead, 12-year-old Bea recounts the changes she experiences in the wake of her parents' divorce, her dad coming out as gay, and his subsequent remarriage to his partner, Jesse. Amidst navigating her own emotional responses and adjusting to a new family dynamic, Bea learns about empathy, the complexity of relationships, and the stability and love that can be found in family. The book addresses LGBTQ+ and anti-gay discrimination and bias.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Rebecca Stead's The List of Things That Will Not Change has garnered praise for its sensitive portrayal of family dynamics and mental health. Critics laud the relatable protagonist and engaging narrative style. Some note that the pacing may be slow for younger readers. Overall, the novel is celebrated for its emotional depth and insightful character development.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The List of Things That Will Not Change?

Readers who enjoy heartwarming, introspective narratives about family dynamics and personal growth will love Rebecca Stead's The List of Things That Will Not Change. Ideal for fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder and Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn-Dixie, this book resonates with middle-grade readers seeking emotional depth and realism.

Recommended

Reading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

680L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

LGBTQ

Themes

Relationships: Family

Emotions/Behavior: Conflict

Identity: Mental Health