Jake, Reinvented

Jake, Reinvented

By Gordon Korman Hyperion Paperbacks (2003) ISBN: 0786856971

Unforgettable Friday parties have become the buzz of F. Scott Fitzgerald High School, and the new guy, Jake, is the host. In a high school where the popularity lines have been drawn, Jake blurs the those lines before school even begins. In an effort to lure Didi, the girlfriend of the alpha-quarterback Todd Buckley, into his arms, Jake reinvents himself from a nerd known for taking advanced placement courses into a high school hot shot. However, Jake’s performance cannot last forever. Rick, Jake’s only true friend, narrates the tale and allows the reader to see Jake through his eyes--first through a lens of admiration, then affection, and lastly, anxiety over the revelation of Jake’s secret. Rick’s views of his peers underscore the notoriety of popularity, the desperation for acceptance, and just how far people are willing to sacrifice for both.

Quantitative: Lexile Level--800; ATOS--5.2

Qualitative: A story for middle and high school grades (7-12). Even though this text would be classified in the 2nd and 3rd grade range on the Common Core Band, themes such as popularity, the danger of celebrity, and acceptance resonate more appropriately with older students. However, the novel touches on issues like underage drinking, driving under the influence, academic integrity, and sexual content, a more mature, high school audience would be more fitting.

Content Area: English

Curriculum Suggestions: This novel could be used as a companion piece when teacher The Great Gatsby. English teachers could trace the themes in both texts and analyze how each author presents the themes. Also, analyzing the endings of both novels could be a useful exercise in discussion context and appropriateness of authors’ choices.

Common Core Standards: RL.9/10. 2; RL.9/10.3; RL.9/10.5

Additional/Digital Content: Classic connection--F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby.

*Meets the "Classic/Contemporary Novel" pairing