In Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key, 10-year-old Joey, dealing with hyperactivity and impulsivity, narrates his struggles with unpredictable behavior, leading to various conflicts at school and home. After an incident at school, Joey is transferred to a Special Education Center where he receives effective medication and therapy, helping him find stability and a hopeful future. Topics in the book include injury, family abandonment, and alcohol abuse.

Jack Gantos' Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key provides a poignant and humorous exploration of ADHD through its lively protagonist. Reviewers praise its realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by those with the condition, though some critique the repetitive narrative and predictability. The empathy in Gantos' writing, however, deeply resonates with both young readers and adults.

A reader who would enjoy Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key by Jack Gantos is likely interested in realistic, middle-grade fiction that explores themes of ADHD, family dynamics, and personal growth. Comparable to readers of Holes by Louis Sachar and Wonder by R.J. Palacio, they appreciate stories with strong, emotionally complex characters.

Mysterious / Challenging / Emotional / Humorous / Contemplative

Jack Gantos

Middle grade

Novel

Joey Pigza

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-12

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Character Analysis

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Themes

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Essay Topics

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key?

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