Book details
Mr. Was
Description
Jack Lund figures a good day is when his dad's too drunk to beat up his mom. For Jack, Bogg's End is the end. The end of the turbulent, see-saw years of watching his father go on the wagon and fall right back off gain. Once it took two years, but the inevitable inevitably happened. Now it's just Jack and his mom starting over in the strange old house his grandfather left them. But the ride's not over yet. Jack's father returns, full of apologies and promises, and for a little while, things are looking up. Then in one terrifying, sickening moment, everything comes crashing back down again. So Jack runs. He runs through a strange hidden door that takes him back in time to before his parents were born. Before he was born. Maybe with a second chance he can stop the inevitable. At least he's got to try. What Jack doesn't understand, though, is that he can't change his future until he faces his past.
Age
12-15
Text complexity
proficient
Length
256 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Time Travel Narrative: 'Mr. Was' by Pete Hautman offers readers a captivating time travel adventure that explores the complexities of time, history, and personal destiny, making it an intriguing read for anyone interested in science fiction and temporal paradoxes.
- Exploration of Difficult Themes: The book tackles challenging subjects such as domestic abuse, trauma, and coping with loss in a sensitive and thought-provoking manner, providing a meaningful experience for readers who appreciate depth and emotional resonance in their literature.
- Character Development: Readers will find the character arcs in 'Mr. Was' to be well-crafted and compelling. The protagonist's journey is one of growth and self-discovery, which can inspire readers to reflect on their own life choices and the paths they've taken.
- Pete Hautman's Writing Style: Hautman is known for his clear and engaging writing style, which makes 'Mr. Was' accessible to a wide audience, including both young adults and adults. His ability to weave suspense and maintain a fast-paced narrative keeps readers invested in the story from start to finish.