Jasmine Warga's The Shape of Thunder is lauded for its sensitive portrayal of friendship and grief, offering a heart-wrenching, nuanced narrative. Readers appreciate its emotional depth and compelling character development. However, some critiques focus on pacing and predictability. Overall, it’s praised as a poignant, thought-provoking read suitable for middle-grade audiences.

A reader who would enjoy The Shape of Thunder by Jasmine Warga is typically a middle-grade enthusiast who appreciates emotionally complex stories about friendship, grief, and healing. Fans of books like Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson will find this novel deeply engaging.

The Shape of Thunder by Jasmine Warga tells the story of Cora and Quinn, two best friends whose bond is tested after a tragic school shooting involving their siblings. Cora’s sister, Mabel, was killed by Quinn’s brother, Parker. Struggling with grief and isolation, the girls attempt to time travel to prevent the shooting and ultimately rebuild their friendship through this shared endeavor. This novel includes frequent references to gun violence and suicide and implies that the depicted violence is motivated by racism.

Emotional / Contemplative / Heartwarming / Melancholic / Hopeful

Jasmine Warga

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

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The Shape of Thunder Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Shape of Thunder Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

The Shape of Thunder Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-16

The Shape of Thunder Chapters 9-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-24

The Shape of Thunder Chapters 17-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-32

The Shape of Thunder Chapters 25-32 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 33-38

The Shape of Thunder Chapters 33-38 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Shape of Thunder Character Analysis

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Themes

The Shape of Thunder Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Shape of Thunder Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Shape of Thunder Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Shape of Thunder Essay Topics

The Shape of Thunder

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