61 pages 2 hours read

Joyce Mcdonald

Swallowing Stones

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1997

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

On Michael MacKenzie’s 17th birthday, he fires a rifle into the air, unaware the bullet will tragically kill Jenna Ward’s father, Charlie. As Michael grapples with guilt and fear of exposure, he distances himself from loved ones and forms a connection with Amy Ruggerio. Meanwhile, Jenna struggles with grief and guilt, eventually confronting her feelings. Michael realizes he must confess to Jenna and take responsibility. Swallowing Stones contains depictions of gun violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Swallowing Stones by Joyce McDonald explores the devastating consequences of a tragic accident on two young lives. Reviews praise its intense, emotive storytelling and realistic depiction of grief and guilt. Criticism highlights occasional pacing issues and somewhat underdeveloped secondary characters. Overall, it's a gripping and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Swallowing Stones?

A reader who would enjoy Swallowing Stones by Joyce McDonald is likely a young adult interested in gripping, realistic fiction that deals with complex themes like guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions. Similar readers might appreciate books such as Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher or The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Lexile Level

820L

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Grief

Emotions/Behavior: Guilt

Emotions/Behavior: Regret

Genre

Children's Literature

Education

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Topics

Education