Book Review: The Unteachables by Gordon Korman
Sometimes, a title jumps off the shelf, tugging at your curiosity like a mischievous class of kids vying for attention. That’s exactly what The Unteachables did for me. As someone who has always been enchanted by books that explore the unshakeable bond between educators and their students, I was thrilled to dive into this charming tale by Gordon Korman. Given his reputation for weaving humor and heart, I had high hopes—and I’m delighted to say, he delivered!
In a vibrantly chaotic middle school setting, we meet Mr. Zachary Kermit, an ex-star teacher whose enthusiasm for his profession has dimmed, replaced by weariness and resignation. When he is unexpectedly assigned to teach the infamous Room 117, home to the “unteachables” (think misfits, delinquents, and academic disasters), hilarity and mayhem ensue. From Aldo with his anger management issues to Parker, who struggles with reading, each character springs to life, embodying the trials and tribulations of adolescence.
Korman expertly captures the essence of middle school life—the awkwardness, the rebellion, and the tender moments of connection that often go unnoticed. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, allowing readers to empathize with each character’s journey. This storytelling choice deepens our understanding of their complexities, and I personally found it refreshing; it forced me to see beyond their “unteachable” labels and recognize their potential.
One standout aspect of Korman’s writing is his impeccable blend of humor and poignant moments. I found myself chuckling aloud at absurd situations, like when Mr. Kermit accidentally becomes a part of an unexpected school prank. Yet, amid the laughter, there are moments that genuinely tug at the heartstrings, illuminating themes of redemption, growth, and the importance of never underestimating anyone—students or teachers alike.
I couldn’t help but be reminded of the profound yet often overlooked impact a teacher can have. There’s a particularly touching moment when Mr. Kermit realizes that his “unteachables” are not just a collection of problem children; they have stories waiting to be unveiled. This connection is beautifully encapsulated in a line that resonated deeply with me: “Every kid deserves someone who believes in them.”
As I closed the book, I felt uplifted—not just by the humor but by the underlying message that with dedication, compassion, and a little creativity, we can all learn from each other. The Unteachables is a powerful exploration of what it means to teach and learn in unconventional ways.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Unteachables to middle-grade readers and anyone with a soft spot for stories about growth and redemption. Teachers, parents, and anyone who has ever felt like an "unteachable" will find joy and solace in this engaging read. Gordon Korman has once again shown us that when we throw labels aside, magic happens. This heartwarming journey left me not only entertained but hopeful, reminding me of the transformative power of connection—on and off the classroom floor. So grab a copy, settle in, and prepare for a laugh-out-loud adventure that will leave you cheering for the underdogs!