In Lost in the Sun, middle schooler Trent Zimmerman struggles with guilt, self-loathing, and anger after the accidental death of his hockey teammate, Jared. Isolated from friends and sports, Trent slowly heals through an unexpected friendship with Fallon Little, a cinephile with a prominent facial scar. Together, they navigate their personal traumas, learning the importance of empathy and understanding. Accidental death and trauma are central themes in the book.

Lost in the Sun by Lisa Graff presents a profound exploration of guilt and healing through a tragic storyline. Reviewers laud the complex character development and emotional depth, but some criticize the pacing as slow. Overall, it’s praised for its realistic portrayal of grief and redemption, making it a compelling read for middle-grade audiences.

Fans of emotionally gripping middle-grade fiction will enjoy Lisa Graff's Lost in the Sun. Similar to readers of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson, they will appreciate the poignant exploration of grief, redemption, and healing through the eyes of a relatable young protagonist.

Emotional / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Challenging

**Trent Zimmerman**  
A 12-year-old boy struggling with guilt and trauma after a tragic accident during a hockey game, which impacts his relationships with friends and family.

**Fallon Little**  
A classmate of Trent's with a distinctive facial scar, who becomes an unexpected friend and shares a passion for movies, supporting him as they navigate their respective challenges.

**Trent's Brothers (Doug and Aaron)**  
Doug is Trent's younger brother known for humor and pranks, while Aaron is his supportive older brother, both playing roles in Trent's journey through familial struggles and reconciliation.

**Ms. Emerson**  
Trent's sixth-grade teacher, who, despite initial tensions, becomes a guiding figure in helping him learn to mend relationships and move toward personal growth.

Lisa Graff

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Lost in the Sun Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 5

Lost in the Sun Prologue-Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

Lost in the Sun Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

Lost in the Sun Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-20

Lost in the Sun Chapters 16-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-26

Lost in the Sun Chapters 21-26 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Lost in the Sun Character Analysis

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Themes

Lost in the Sun Themes

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Important Quotes

Lost in the Sun Important Quotes

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Lost in the Sun

Before You Read

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