47 pages • 1 hour read
Terry TruemanStuck In Neutral
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2000A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman follows Shawn McDaniel, a fourteen-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, who is perceived by his family and the world as being in a vegetative state due to his lack of motor function and communication abilities. Unbeknownst to them, Shawn possesses perfect memory and intelligence, experiencing profound internal thoughts and out-of-body sensations during his frequent seizures, while grappling with the fear of whether his father might end his life out of mistaken compassion. The book touches on sensitive topics, including euthanasia and perceptions of disability.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman offers a gripping depiction of a disabled teen's inner world, praised for its emotional depth and unique perspective. While lauded for raising awareness and empathy, some critics feel the plot lacks complexity and depth. Despite these shortcomings, it remains a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Stuck In Neutral?
A reader who would enjoy Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman is likely drawn to thought-provoking, character-driven narratives that tackle complex themes. Fans of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon or Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper would appreciate its poignant exploration of a teenager with cerebral palsy.
RecommendedReading Age
11-15yearsLexile Level
820L