Brief Summary of School Reading List Books - Ievgen Sykalo 2026
Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt
Orbiting Jupiter takes us to a small dairy farm in Maine during a harsh winter. Here's a closer look at twelve-year-old Jack Hurd's life turned upside down by the arrival of a troubled teenager:
An Unexpected Addition:
Jack lives a routine life on the farm with his parents. Their world is shaken when they agree to foster a troubled 14-year-old boy named Joseph Brook. Joseph has a dark past — he recently attacked a teacher at his juvenile detention center.
A Guarded Start:
Joseph arrives quiet and withdrawn, easily startled by the unfamiliar surroundings. Jack, initially curious, attempts to connect with him, but Joseph remains guarded. The stark difference in their backgrounds creates a sense of unease between them.
Unveiling Secrets:
Slowly, details about Joseph's life emerge. He has a baby daughter, Jupiter, whom he has never seen. This revelation softens Jack's perception of Joseph, sparking a sense of empathy.
School Challenges:
At school, Joseph struggles to fit in. His volatile past and intimidating demeanor keep him isolated. However, some teachers, like Coach Swieteck and Mr. D'Ulney, recognize his potential and offer him support.
A Father's Threat:
One day, Joseph's estranged father arrives at the farm, causing a tense confrontation. Mr. Brook threatens both Jack and Joseph, further highlighting Joseph's troubled past and his desperate desire to protect himself and the possibility of reconnecting with his daughter.
A Shared Passion:
Despite their differences, Jack and Joseph find a common ground in their love for astronomy. They spend evenings gazing at the stars, discussing planets and constellations. This shared interest becomes a bridge between them, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
The Importance of Community:
The townspeople play a crucial role in Joseph's journey. The librarian, Mrs. Falker, shows genuine kindness, offering him books and a listening ear. She also keeps in touch with Joseph through letters, providing a connection to a caring adult outside the Hurd family.
The Search for Jupiter:
Driven by a burning desire, Joseph attempts to locate his daughter. With Jack's hesitant support and the help of Mrs. Falker, they embark on a search for Jupiter, leading them to a local foster home.
A Heartbreaking Discovery:
Their search leads to a heartbreaking discovery — Jupiter has been adopted by another family. Joseph is devastated, his hopes of reuniting with his daughter shattered.
A Bond Forged:
Despite the disappointment, Jack and Joseph's bond strengthens. They have faced challenges together, learned from each other, and developed a sense of mutual respect.
A Glimmer of Hope:
The story ends with a glimmer of hope. Jack and Joseph continue to gaze at the stars, their eyes fixed on Jupiter, a symbol of both loss and the enduring power of human connection. The harsh winter seems less daunting as they face the future together, a testament to the transformative power of empathy and shared experience.