Readers and critics praise Paul Fleischman’s Whirligig for its richly woven narrative and thought-provoking themes of redemption and interconnectedness. The novel's unique storytelling structure, using different perspectives, is lauded but can be challenging for some. Characters are well-developed, though the pacing may feel slow to some readers. Overall, it's a compelling read for thoughtful audiences.

Readers who enjoy introspective, coming-of-age stories will find Whirligig by Paul Fleischman captivating. Similar in spirit to Holes by Louis Sachar and Crash by Jerry Spinelli, it appeals to middle and high school students who are interested in themes of redemption, personal growth, and interconnected lives.

In Whirligig by Paul Fleischman, 17-year-old Brent Bishop, who struggles with fitting in and social pressure, inadvertently causes a fatal car accident and, as part of restitution, is tasked with building whirligigs in four corners of the United States to honor the victim, Lea Zamora. Brent's cross-country journey becomes one of self-discovery, transformation, and atonement. This book contains themes of guilt and redemption following a tragic accident.

Contemplative / Bittersweet / Emotional / Hopeful / Inspirational

- Whirligig by Paul Fleischman won the 1998 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, which is typically awarded to works of historical fiction for children or young adults, despite the book's contemporary setting.
- Paul Fleischman is known for his unique storytelling techniques, and in Whirligig, he employs multiple perspectives to weave together a narrative that spans across different locations in the United States.
- The novel explores the theme of interconnectedness through its titular whirligigs, which symbolize the unseen impact of one's actions on the lives of others across distance and time.

**Brent Bishop**  
A high school junior whose story begins with a superficial pursuit of social status, focusing on material goods and appearances, and follows his journey of personal growth following a significant life event.

**Steph**  
A 13-year-old narrator passionate about oceanography, known for her intelligence and logical approach to life, who begins to expand her worldview by considering new perspectives.

**The Narrator of “Miami, Florida”**  
A Puerto Rican street-sweeper who values peace and quiet while navigating life's constant noise and learns to appreciate the coexistence of conflict and cooperation.

**Anthony**  
A fifth-grade boy from Seattle, interested in baseball, who challenges parental expectations and embraces his individuality.

**Jenny**  
A teenage girl with a deep interest in her Jewish heritage, faced with family challenges that influence her perspective on historical and personal issues.

**Lea Zamora**  
An 18-year-old honor student and community volunteer whose untimely death plays a crucial role in the narrative's turning point.

**Tamara Zamora**  
A philosophical and understanding woman, she is Lea Zamora's mother, who responds to her daughter's death with mercy and belief in a greater purpose.

**Emil**  
A German student exploring the United States before college, notable for his worldliness and contrast to the protagonist in terms of knowledge and independence.

Paul Fleischman

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