Wink by Rob Harrell has garnered praise for its heartfelt and humorous portrayal of a middle school student diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. Readers appreciate the relatable characters and insightful handling of a tough subject with levity. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven and the plot sometimes predictable. Overall, Wink is celebrated for its emotional depth and engaging narrative.

Readers who would enjoy Rob Harrell's Wink are typically middle schoolers who appreciate stories blending humor with heartfelt themes. Fans of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid and R.J. Palacio's Wonder will find a kindred spirit in this tale of resilience, comedy, and navigating school life.

Wink by Rob Harrell follows seventh grader Ross Maloy, who navigates middle school while undergoing radiation treatment for a rare eye cancer. Balancing friendships, school challenges, and his passion for drawing, Ross finds solace in music, eventually forming a band with his friends. Through these experiences, Ross learns to embrace his differences and focus on the people and activities he loves.

Inspirational / Heartwarming / Humorous / Emotional / Hopeful

- Wink was inspired by Rob Harrell's own experiences with a rare eye cancer, adding a deeply personal dimension to the story and its authenticity.
- The book blends humor and emotional depth, incorporating Rob Harrell's signature cartoon illustrations to enhance its storytelling and connect with younger readers.
- Rob Harrell is also known for his work on the comic strip Adam@Home, which showcases his unique artistic style and his ability to engage audiences through visual storytelling.

**Ross Maloy**  
The narrator and protagonist, who is a seventh grader receiving radiation treatment for eye cancer and navigating the challenges of middle school while longing to be normal amidst his fears.

**Abby Peterson**  
Ross's best friend known for her bold personality and love of eccentric clothing and music, who encourages Ross to embrace his differences and cease caring about others' opinions.

**Jimmy Jenkins**  
Ross's large and abrasive classmate, who initially seems to be a typical bully but gradually reveals a more complex and supportive side.

**Ross’s Father and Linda Maloy**  
Sources of stability in Ross's life, with his father being a busy trial lawyer and Linda, his stepmother, showing care and understanding without expecting to replace Ross's late mother.

**Frank**  
A radiation tech passionate about rock music, who mentors Ross and encourages him to express himself authentically through music.

**Jerry Thompson**  
A retiree undergoing radiotherapy, who connects with Ross over their shared cancer experience and offers wisdom and support.

**Sarah Kennedy**  
A popular girl at Ross’s school and his longtime crush, whose outward perfection eventually reveals a more superficial nature.

**Isaac Nalibotsky**  
Ross's friend, who is absent for much of the story due to feeling overwhelmed by Ross's cancer diagnosis but later reconciles with Ross and Abby.

Rob Harrell

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Wink | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Wink Summary and Study Guide

Background

Wink Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

Wink Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

Wink Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

Wink Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

Wink Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-20

Wink Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-24

Wink Chapters 21-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-32

Wink Chapters 25-32 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 33-36

Wink Chapters 33-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-41

Wink Chapters 37-41 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Wink Character Analysis

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Themes

Wink Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Wink Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Wink Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Wink Essay Topics

Wink

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