Reviews

The Activist by John Grisham

trevoryan's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

It's funny, I've never read any of Grisham's books outside of this series. I mostly just tried the first book because I work in the children's center of a public library and was intrigued by the idea of an author who usually writes for adults doing a kids book. I have enjoyed reading all four books in this series. They are fun, easy, and have just enough excitement and intrigue, without getting too heavy. I would've REALLY loved these when I was a kid. I recommend them to any kid who likes mysteries and detective stories. The idea of a "kid lawyer" is a fresh one. My only gripe is that the book's endings are a little abrupt and unfulfilling.

rvmama's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

Great story!

ilovedogs123's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful tense fast-paced

4.5

aoosterwyk's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

I've only ever read one Grisham book before and I'm not a big fan of the genre, but I was looking for a book with important themes for a One Book/One School selection. This could definitely be that book.

Living across the river from New London, CT and the vacant lot that once held The Little Pink House, I am familiar with eminent domain and the corruption and political machining that sometimes comes with it. This story would provide lots of discussion points for groups and does a good job of at least presenting both sides of the issue.

The main character is sympathetic right away, even if you haven't read any of his earlier stories. I loved the fact that his parents could be on different sides of an issue and weren't afraid to include Theo in their debates. They remained the parents and Theo even mentions how some parents he knows champion their kids, even when they're wrong. Theo himself is called upon to figure out how to do the right thing and figure out what that is without adult assistance.

Overall, a winner.

janeeyre_914716's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

still not my favorite writing. but also I can tell there's a chance bk 5 is coming. but..this story line was indeed exciting and fun. some sad parts here and there and excited/clever parts as well. again, if you're a Grisham fan, a YA fan or both you'll like these. but overall, it was entertaining and glad I finished it in time before my 2 week vacation! wahoo!

chelse34's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

I'm starting to see a pattern here... Uncle Ike has all the good ideas and seems to stay up all night once each book for a different reason, and animal court is involved. We'll see if the pattern continues.

This was an interesting book dealing with eminent domain and Theo trying to convince county commissioners about not building a bypass. Knowing the law at age 13 has definitely helped him and his friends.

rlafleur85's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

This wasn't my favorite Boone book. The beginning of the novel begins by reviewing the content of books 1-3, which I didn't think was necessary, but I guess I'm a 31 year old guy reading a book intended for middle school kids, so I'll give it that. Once the story began the plot was interesting and brought Theo and all the enjoyable characters to life, passionate about new causes in their community and curious about law.

lottie_c's review against another edition

Go to review page

informative lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

happyali777's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0