The Unteachables

The Unteachables follows Mr. Kermit, a burnt-out teacher counting down his final year before early retirement, who gets assigned to teach a class of misfit students known as the "Unteachables." This group of seventh-grade outcasts has been separated from the general student population and placed in Room 117. The story alternates between multiple viewpoints, including Mr. Kermit, several students, and the school administration. Through these perspectives, the relationships between teacher and students develop as they face obstacles both in and out of the classroom. The class must confront the school superintendent's efforts to remove Mr. Kermit while dealing with their individual challenges and reputations. The students work to prove themselves as more than their labels, while Mr. Kermit rediscovers his passion for teaching. This middle-grade novel explores themes of redemption, stereotypes, and the power of giving people second chances. It demonstrates how unexpected connections can transform both students and teachers.

Readers connect with the multiple character perspectives and gradual transformation of both students and teacher throughout the story. Parents note it resonates with kids who feel misunderstood at school. Likes: - Humor that appeals to both children and adults - Character development, particularly Mr. Kermit's growth - Messages about not giving up on students - Realistic portrayal of school dynamics Dislikes: - Some find the initial premise unrealistic - A few readers felt the ending wrapped up too neatly - Minor complaints about stereotypical character traits Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (17,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (2,000+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 Review quotes: "Perfect balance of funny and meaningful" - Goodreads reviewer "My reluctant reader finished it in two days" - Amazon parent "Makes you think about how we label kids" - School librarian on Goodreads "Characters feel authentic to middle school" - Teacher on Amazon

Restart by Gordon Korman A middle school student with a reputation for causing trouble is sent to finish his education in an alternative program where teachers expect the worst but discover untapped potential.

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt A sixth-grader with dyslexia finds her place and voice when one teacher takes the time to understand her struggles and unique way of thinking.

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper A brilliant girl with cerebral palsy breaks through others' assumptions when she joins her school's trivia team and proves her capabilities.

Schooled by Gordon Korman A homeschooled teenager raised on a commune must navigate public middle school culture while maintaining his authentic self.

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea Seven fifth-grade students from different backgrounds experience transformation through their relationships with an inspirational first-year teacher.

🎓 The book was partly inspired by a real 2005 news story about a teacher who was reassigned to the school system's supply room as punishment. 📚 Gordon Korman wrote his first novel, "This Can't Be Happening at Macdonald Hall," at age 12 as a seventh-grade English project. 🏫 The character of Mr. Kermit was shaped by Korman's observation that many veteran teachers become cynical after years of dealing with educational bureaucracy. ✍️ The book cleverly switches between multiple narrators, giving readers perspective from both the students and their teacher - a technique Korman has successfully used in several of his works. 🌟 Despite the serious themes of burnout and educational challenges, the book maintains Korman's signature humor - including a memorable scene where students turn their classroom into a drive-in movie theater.