In Gordon Korman's Slacker, eighth-grader Cameron Boxer is a video game enthusiast who almost lets his house burn down while gaming. His parents force him to join a school activity, leading to the creation of the fake Positive Action Group (P.A.G.) with friends Chuck and Pavel. Unintentionally, the P.A.G. becomes a real club focused on community service, challenging Cameron to navigate newfound responsibilities and leadership.

Slacker by Gordon Korman is generally well-received, lauded for its humor, relatable characters, and engaging plot which appeals to young readers. Positive reviews highlight Korman's ability to address themes like responsibility and teamwork in an entertaining way. However, some critics feel the storyline can be predictable. Despite mixed opinions on depth, it's deemed a fun and motivating read.

Fans of The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and Big Nate will enjoy Gordon Korman's Slacker. Targeting middle school readers, it's perfect for those who appreciate humorous, relatable tales of navigating school, friendships, and unexpected responsibilities. It's ideal for anyone looking for a light-hearted yet engaging read.

Humorous / Playful / Adventurous / Upbeat / Inspirational

- Gordon Korman wrote Slacker to highlight the humorous and unexpected outcomes when kids are forced to balance their hobbies with new responsibilities.
- The protagonist of Slacker, Cameron Boxer, creates a fake club at school that inadvertently becomes a real and popular activity, showing the unintended impact of digital distractions.
- Slacker explores themes common in Korman's works, such as friendship, teamwork, and personal growth, wrapped in a comedic narrative that appeals to both young readers and adults.

**Cameron Boxer**  
Cameron, an eighth-grade gamer at the center of the story, is known for his slacker lifestyle and love for video games. His journey is set in motion when he creates a fake club to keep playing games without parental interference.

**Daphne Leibowitz**  
Daphne, a passionate eighth-grader, is one of the first to join Cam's club. She is committed to animal welfare, particularly an abandoned beaver named Elvis, and plays a key role in the club's development.

**Pavel Dysan**  
Pavel is one of Cam's best friends and fellow gamers, renowned for his intelligence and computer skills. He contributes to Cam's fake club by setting up a website to make it seem legitimate.

**Chuck Kinsey**  
Chuck is another of Cam's gaming friends who begins to transform after getting involved in the club. He discovers new interests and becomes an active participant in community projects.

**Mr. Fanshaw**  
Mr. Fanshaw is a middle school guidance counselor who unknowingly aids in the success of Cam's club. Driven by the potential positive impact on students and the community, he encourages the club's activities.

**Melody Boxer**  
Melody is Cam's younger sister who grows frustrated with his antics and plots to expose his club hoax. She ultimately plays a significant role in the club's unintentional success.

**Jennifer Del Rio**  
Jennifer is the high school senior and head of a rival community service club. Competitive and ambitious, she sees Cam's club as a threat to her resume-boosting efforts.

**Freeland "String" McBean**  
String, a star football player, becomes involved in the club for extra credit. Initially driven by his love for football, he finds himself more committed to the club's cause.

**Xavier Meggett**  
Xavier is a tough eighth-grader with a troubled past who is compelled to join the club for community service. His involvement in the club gives him a positive outlet and a sense of purpose.

Gordon Korman

Middle grade

Novel

Slacker

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Slacker | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Slacker Summary and Study Guide

Background

Slacker Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Slacker Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-11

Slacker Chapters 7-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-16

Slacker Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-22

Slacker Chapters 17-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-27

Slacker Chapters 23-27 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 28-33

Slacker Chapters 28-33 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Slacker Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Slacker Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Slacker Symbols & Motifs

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citation

Important Quotes

Slacker Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Slacker Essay Topics

Slacker Teaching Unit

Introduction

Slacker Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Slacker Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Slacker Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Slacker Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Slacker Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Slacker Activities

Essay Questions

Slacker Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Slacker Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Slacker Exam Answer Key

Slacker

Before You Read

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Review Roundup

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