61 pages 2 hours read

Andrew Clements

Things Not Seen

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements, 15-year-old Bobby Phillips wakes up to find himself invisible and, feeling abandoned, sneaks into the University of Chicago library where he meets Alicia, a girl who is blind. They become friends and, alongside their parents, seek to keep his condition secret while searching for a cure to restore Bobby’s visibility and prevent the family from being torn apart.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements offers compelling themes of invisibility and self-discovery. Readers appreciate the engaging plot and relatable characters. Critiques include the pacing and occasional lack of depth. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read for young adults, with a blend of mystery and emotional growth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Things Not Seen?

Readers who enjoy Andrew Clements' Things Not Seen are typically middle school to early high school students who appreciate thought-provoking, realistic fiction with a touch of the supernatural. Fans of Coraline by Neil Gaiman or Frindle by Andrew Clements himself will likely be captivated by the blend of everyday challenges and extraordinary circumstances.

RecommendedReading Age

12-16years

Lexile Level

690L

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Fantasy

Children's Literature

Themes

Identity: Disability

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology