Book details
On My Honor
Description
On My Honor is a young adult novel by Marion Dane Bauer that explores themes of responsibility, guilt, and coming of age. The story follows two boys, Joel and Tony, who decide to go on a bike ride to Starved Rock State Park despite Joel's father's instructions to stay at the local swimming hole. During the ride, Tony insists on swimming in the dangerous Vermillion River. Joel reluctantly agrees, but when Tony starts to struggle in the water, Joel is unable to save him. Tony drowns, and Joel is left to grapple with the consequences of their decision and the weight of his promise to his father. The novel deals with Joel's internal struggle as he must come to terms with the loss of his friend, the lie he tells to cover up the circumstances of Tony's death, and ultimately, his decision to face the truth and accept responsibility for his actions.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
100 pages
Why to read
- Exploration of Moral Complexity: 'On My Honor' delves into the challenging moral decisions that young people face, providing readers with an opportunity to explore ethical dilemmas and the consequences of their choices in a safe and reflective environment.
- Emotional Growth and Resilience: The book deals with themes of guilt, responsibility, and loss, which can help readers, particularly young ones, to understand and process their own emotions in difficult situations, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience.
- Engaging Narrative: Marion Dane Bauer's storytelling is compelling and accessible, making it an engaging read for middle-grade readers. The book's fast pace and high stakes keep readers invested in the characters and their outcomes.
- Award-Winning Literature: 'On My Honor' is a Newbery Honor book, recognized for its literary merit. Reading award-winning literature can expose readers to high-quality writing and storytelling, which can be both enjoyable and educational.