The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

 

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Hinton, S. E. (1967). The Outsiders. Viking Children’s Books. ISBN 9789739375198

PLOT SUMMARY

In this novel, S.E. Hinton writes the story about Ponyboy Curtis, a greaser, that is part of a Greasers' gang, known for their greasy hair. One day Ponyboy was walking home and was harassed by the Socs, which was a rich rival gang. His fellow Greasers gang showed up and scared the Socs away. But the gangs continue to clash over the next weeks and eventually leads up to an all out war between the rival gangs.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This story was full of suspense and really demonstrates the hate that existed between these two gangs. The hate reminds me of what is currently seen today online, and on the news. There is so much hate for people that look and act different, and my question is why? Why so much hate? Everyone is different, and we should embrace that and learn from one another. Honestly, I did not particularly enjoy this novel, and instead it made me angry due to the violence and hate. What I did find interesting was how within their own gangs, they truly cared for each other as a family would. The audiobook version of this novel was interesting and really moved me to the point where I was able to envision myself in the story. The different tones that the narrator used, made the story come to life!

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

"The Outsiders transformed young-adult fiction from a genre mostly about prom queens, football players and high school crushes to one that portrayed a darker, truer world." 

—The New York Times

"Taut with tension, filled with drama." 

—The Chicago Tribune

"[A] classic coming-of-age book." 

—Philadelphia Daily News

CONNECTIONS

"This remarkable novel gives a moving, credible view of the outsiders from the inside...we meet powerful characters in a book with a powerful message." 

—The Horn Book

 

AWARDS

• A New York Herald Tribune Best Teenage Book
• A Chicago Tribune Book World Spring Book Festival Honor Book
• An ALA Best Book for Young Adults
• Winner of the Massachusetts Children's Book Award