Garde conjointe

Readers largely welcome the return to the life of Leigh Botts, the protagonist from "Dear Mr. Henshaw," appreciating the natural and believable portrayal of his growth into adolescence. The book is praised for its realistic characterization, subtly handling themes such as navigating parents' divorce, nascent romantic feelings, and the development of self-assuredness. Many find the diary-entry format an effective way to delve into Leigh's thoughts and experiences, especially as he copes with loneliness and the everyday challenges of entering high school. The introduction of Strider, an abandoned dog Leigh and his friend adopt, is a significant positive, with the loyal companion being a source of comfort and growth for Leigh. Reviewers commend the author for presenting a wholesome story about real-world issues without dramatization, making it a quality read for young people. The audiobook narration by Pedro Pascal is also frequently highlighted as excellent.

Despite its strengths, some readers found the book to be less impactful or memorable compared to the author's earlier works, including its prequel. Criticisms include a perceived lack of significant closure for Leigh's character at the end and a feeling that the narrative sometimes "tells" rather than "shows." A few reviewers noted that the conflicts, such as those with a challenging English teacher or minor disputes, felt underdeveloped or resolved too easily, leading to a sense of the story being somewhat "flat and mundane" or focused on everyday routines without strong antagonists. One review suggested that by its publication date, the style of "social realism young adult" literature, while once groundbreaking, had become less fresh, making it potentially not the best introduction to the author's wider body of work. Additionally, a dated reference regarding divorced families was noted as potentially cringeworthy by one reader.

Overall, "Strider" is generally considered a pleasant and worthwhile read, particularly for those who enjoyed "Dear Mr. Henshaw" and are interested in continuing Leigh Botts' journey. It excels in offering a sensitive and realistic portrayal of adolescent life, tackling common issues like loneliness, friendship, and family changes in a gentle manner. This book is highly recommended for older middle-grade and younger young adult readers, especially those seeking stories about ordinary children navigating real-world challenges without overly dramatic or fantastical elements. It would also appeal to dog lovers and parents looking for wholesome literature that can positively influence young readers. While it may not be universally regarded as the author's most groundbreaking work, it remains a touching and relatable story about growing up and finding one's place.