95 pages • 3 hours read
Joan BauerRules of the Road
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1998A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Rules of the Road by Joan Bauer follows 16-year-old Jenna Boller, who escapes her tumultuous home life and self-consciousness by excelling as a "shoe professional" at Gladstone's Shoe Store. She embarks on a six-week road trip across the Midwest to Texas as a driver and assistant to Mrs. Gladstone, the shoe store president, confronting personal challenges and family issues while gaining confidence and strength. The novel deals with alcoholism, drunk driving, death, and Alzheimer's disease.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Joan Bauer's Rules of the Road receives acclaim for its engaging portrayal of a young protagonist navigating personal growth and professional challenges. Readers appreciate the strong character development and life lessons. However, some find the pacing uneven and the storyline somewhat predictable. Overall, it's a compelling read for young adults.
Who Should Read Rules of the Road?
Fans of Joan Bauer's Rules of the Road are typically young adults who appreciate coming-of-age stories with strong, resilient female protagonists. Readers of Louis Sachar's Holes and Sharon Creech's Walk Two Moons will find similar themes of personal growth and adventure compelling.
RecommendedReading Age
12-18yearsLexile Level
850L