48 pages • 1 hour read
Don AkerThe First Stone
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The First Stone by Don Aker tells the intertwined stories of two grieving teenagers, Reef Kennedy and Leeza Hemming, from different backgrounds. After Reef throws a rock from an overpass, causing a car accident that severely injures Leeza, he is sentenced to community service at a rehabilitation center where she is recovering. As they confront themes of justice, redemption, and moral consequences, they forge a bond that helps them heal. The novel contains anti-gay slurs, derogatory descriptions of women, and references to suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Don Aker's The First Stone centers on redemption and personal growth, receiving praise for its realistic characters and emotional depth. Critics commend its engaging narrative and moral complexity. However, some readers find the pace slow and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, it's a compelling read highlighting the consequences of choices and the possibility of change.
Who Should Read The First Stone?
The First Stone by Don Aker appeals to readers who enjoy contemporary young adult fiction addressing complex social issues, such as in Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak or Jay Asher’s Thirteen Reasons Why. Its themes of redemption, empathy, and personal growth resonate with those interested in character-driven narratives and moral dilemmas.