Schooled

• Genre: Fiction; middle grade realistic
• Originally Published: 2007
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 740L; grades 5-8
• Structure/Length: 31 chapters; approximately 224 pages; approximately 4 hours, 48 minutes on audio
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story revolves around Capricorn (Cap) Anderson, a 13-year-old boy who has lived in relative isolation all his life; homeschooled by his grandmother on the site of a former commune, Cap has experienced little interaction with others. The central conflict arises when Cap must attend a public middle school after his grandmother is hospitalized. The narrative explores Cap's navigation of the complexities of the modern school system, bullying, and social norms.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes of bullying; social ostracization; adjustment to new environments; mild humor related to the clash of different lifestyles; assault and physical injury

Gordon Korman, Author

• Bio: Born 1963 in Canada; began writing at a young age; known for his humorous and adventure-filled children's and young adult novels; has written over 80 books; themes often include resilience, humor, and unusual predicaments; a popular figure in school-based literature
• Other Works: The 39 Clues series (contributor; 2008-2009); Swindle series (2008-2016); Ungifted (2012); Restart (2017)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Idealism Versus Realism
• Parenting Styles
• Isolationism and Interventionism