Lawn Boy

Paulsen, G. (2009). Lawn Boy. New York, NY: Random House

Appropriate grade levels:

4th-adult. The content of this book is interesting and allows for use between a wide range of levels. Each chapter title begins with an economic principle which would make for interesting discussions in a high school classroom, especially if studying economics. The main character is 12 years old so younger students would relate, however, the character's youth is not a turn off for older readers because of Paulsen's clever writing and fabulous array of characters. Struggling and non-struggling high school readers would both love this book and take away different things at different levels.

Summary:

The Lawn Boy (nameless throughout the book) is on summer break and has no money. His parents are not wealthy and sometimes he gets picked on at school. He starts mowing lawns for extra money. Due to a recent shortage of lawn mowers in the neighborhood his business becomes immensely popular and grows out of control. He meets an investment banker who invests money for him rather than paying him then helps him build his business and his earnings are unbelievable. The investment banker makes some interesting connections for Lawn Boy bringing some fascinating Paulsen-esque characters in to this delightful story. This book is hilarious, a quick read, and will leave you wanting more (so check out Lawn Boy Returns- the sequel!)

Classroom Use:

- Use with whole class, read alouds, Literature Circles or for independent reading

- Writing connection: students could write a business plan using the economic principles outlined in this book, read nonfiction pieces about economics to draw connections

- Writing connection: students could write about what they would do if they suddenly came into a great deal of money or brainstorm ways that it would change Lawn Boy's family or their own family.

- Writing connection: students could create comic strips about Joey Pow, Arnold, Pascal, or the antagonists who want to beat up Lawn Boy

- Reading strategies: Making predictions is perfect for this novel because of all of the twists and turns. The reader is constantly wondering how Lawn Boy will deal with each of his twists of fate.

- Literature analysis: character development (Paulsen's characters are always creative and richly descriptive), plot analysis (conflict, climax are great to study with this book), authors choice (consider why Paulsen chooses not to name his main character, for example)

Reader’s Response:

This thoughtful written, fun book will instantly be a favorite. Paulsen's talent combined with an uplifting story will not disappoint readers. Lawn Boy is lovable because he is not popular or well loved at school. He is a funny, regular kid with problems and then something amazing happens to him. Students will be able to relate and imagine themselves coming across the good luck that Lawn Boy randomly finds.

Connections with social studies and economics are avenues that many teachers should explore when using this novel. I personally do not have a great understanding of how the stock market works or the true economic structure of our society and this book gives amazingly practical examples that a elementary student could understand and relate to. At the high school level, it would be totally possible to look at businesses and figure out why certain business succeeded or failed based on what is learned from this book. Lawn Boy was able to earn an incredible amount of money because so many tides turned his way. From the shortage of lawn mowers to the chance meeting of an investment banker and his lucky (almost lottery-like) choosing of stocks for Lawn Boy, massive amounts of money was accrued. Students could look at what things need to occur to create a successful business.

The characters in this book are splendid. Paulsen does not disappoint and holds true to his reputation of creating interesting, likable characters. Arnold, the investment banker, is quirky and smart. His motivation for helping Lawn Boy is clear as he earns a percentage of Lawn Boy's earnings but he also seems to be a helpful, caring person. Joey Pow is tough and kind and his extreme protection of Lawn Boy is endearing. The antagonists in the novel are clear bad guys and easy to hate and feel sorry for at the end of the book. Lawn Boy's parents have enough quirkiness to be endearing as well. Paulsen's choice of leaving Lawn Boy nameless and the impact this has on the story is also an interesting point of discussion for a class. This fabulous book will quickly make the top of your list to reread every year for fun!

Something Extra:
Check out a great way to incorporate technology as well as collaborate between a 4th grade and a 12th grade classroom using this book:

Free Technology For Teachers