Breakout by Kate Messner is a captivating middle-grade novel that skillfully blends multiple perspectives to explore themes of friendship, justice, and community. Critics praise its engaging narrative and relevant social commentary. However, some find the multiple viewpoint structure a bit complex for younger readers. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking and timely read.

A reader who enjoys Breakout by Kate Messner likely appreciates middle-grade novels with social themes, mystery, and multiple perspectives. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Restart by Gordon Korman would be drawn to its exploration of community, empathy, and justice. Readers aged 9-12 who enjoy realistic fiction will find it engaging.

Breakout by Kate Messner follows Nora Tucker, her best friend Lizzie Bruno, and new student Elidee Jones as their small upstate New York town becomes the center of a manhunt after two inmates escape from the local prison. Through letters, sketches, poems, and other documents for a community time capsule, the girls confront biases and learn about their town's and their own privilege. This novel includes incidents of bullying, racism, and incarceration, and references to violence.

Informative / Challenging / Contemplative / Emotional / Bittersweet

- Breakout by Kate Messner uses a mixed-media format, including letters, poems, and text messages, to tell the story and engage readers.
- The setting of the book is inspired by a real-life event in Messner’s hometown of Plattsburgh, New York, where a jailbreak occurred in 2015.
- The narrative addresses themes of social justice and community responses, reflecting on the impact of bias and race.

**Nora Tucker**  
A seventh grader and aspiring journalist from Wolf Creek who takes on the narrative role by gathering various multimedia documents. She navigates her understanding of her community and personal biases as she documents a prison break.

**Elidee Jones**  
A new student from the Bronx who feels like an outsider in Wolf Creek, especially due to her brother's incarceration. She copes with her feelings through writing letters and poetry, finding inspiration from numerous writers of color.

**Lizzie Bruno**  
Nora’s best friend who participates in the narrative with an irreverent tone and provides comic relief. Her recordings and satirical writings offer diverse perspectives on the unfolding events.

**Owen Tucker**  
Nora’s younger brother who views the prison break with a simplistic, childlike mindset. His sketches and ideas reflect a desire to return to normalcy amid the chaos.

**Sean Tucker**  
Nora’s older brother who offers insights into social and historical contexts, helping Nora to understand broader societal issues. His discussions are crucial in providing Nora with a more informed perspective.

Kate Messner

Middle grade

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Pages 1-84

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Pages 317-433

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