Synopsis from Goodreads:
A heartbreaking story, narrated by twelve-year-old Jack, whose family is caring for fourteen-year-old Joseph. Joseph is misunderstood. He was incarcerated for trying to kill a teacher. Or so the rumours say. But Jack and his family see something others in town don’t want to.
What’s more, Joseph has a daughter he’s never seen. The two boys go on a journey through the bitter Maine winter to help Joseph find his baby – no matter the cost.
My rating:
★★★★
I picked this up while I was at YALC to see what the hype was about. Orbiting Jupiter is so heartbreakingly beautiful by the end I was sobbing! The story follows Joseph, narrated by his twelve year old foster brother, Jack. Before Joseph had been incarcerated in the mountains after trying to kill his teacher, there’s more to him than meets the eye. Joseph has a daughter called Jupiter he has never seen but desperately wants to.
I couldn’t put Orbiting Jupiter down, it’s a beautiful story of family and love. This book is honestly a must read, you’ll laugh and cry. Jack’s narration was enjoyable and insightful, he was one of the few people who saw the real Joseph and never gave up on him. There’s a quiet sadness to Joseph that touches you more than a direct in your face approach and is a fine example of less is more. I can’t wait to read more books by Gary D. Schmidt.
Published by: Andersen Press
Publication date: 02/03/17 (First published 06/10/15)
Pages: 192
Buy from: Waterstones Book Depository
Fantastic Book Dragon 