Freak the Mighty

Freak the Mighty
by Rodman Philbrick

Blue Sky Press, 1993







Genre:  Realistic fiction

Awards:  ALA Best Book for Young Adult Readers, Arizona Young Readers Award Winner, California Young Readers Medal Winner, Judy Lopez Memorial Award Honor Book, Maryland Children's Book Award Winner, Wyoming Soaring Eagle Award Winner, Nebraska Golden Sower Award Winner, ALA Quick Pick

Review:  Maxwell Kane, a tall, slow-witted, yet kind boy, become the unlikeliest of friends with Kevin a tiny intelligent boy in leg braces, when Kevin moves in next door. Together they become "Freak the Mighty" when Max lifts the sickly boy onto his huge shoulders to escape the neighborhood bullies. The previously friendless pair learn a lot about each other during their subsequent unusual adventures. Max and Kevin's relationship leave an indelible mark on themselves and their loved ones forever.

Opinion:  My local librarian suggested this book to me, and I truly enjoyed following the blossoming friendship between the main characters. Although the ending saddened me, I thought the fact that Max grew from the experience added a layer of believability and an upbeat tone to the overall denouement.

Curriculum:  This book would be a great addition to a discussion about children with disabilities and corresponding coping abilities, which may be especially helpful to classes with disabled children. Another direction to take with this book may be a classroom discussion about relationships and friendships.