Old School

Old School by Gordon Korman: Plot Synopsis

Old School introduces readers to Dexter Foreman, a twelve-year-old boy with the soul of an octogenarian. Having lived at The Pines retirement village since he was six, Dexter has been homeschooled by a quirky cast of senior citizens, including a World War II codebreaker and a bestselling author. His peaceful life of bingo and early bird specials is shattered when a truancy officer discovers his situation and forces him to attend the local Wolf’s Eye Middle School.

Suddenly, Dexter is thrust into a world he doesn’t understand, surrounded by kids who are glued to their phones and obsessed with social status. Dressed in cardigans and wielding a Swiss Army knife to fix broken desks, Dexter sticks out like a sore thumb. While he struggles to decode the baffling social rules of seventh grade, he finds an unlikely ally in Gianna Greco, a student reporter looking for a scoop. As Dexter tries to survive the chaos, he realizes that his “old school” skills might just be what his crumbling school needs the most.

Major Themes and Psychological Depth

Intergenerational Wisdom: The novel beautifully explores the value of connection between the young and the old. Dexter’s unique upbringing highlights how much knowledge and life experience the elderly have to offer, challenging the modern tendency to overlook senior citizens in favor of youth culture.

Identity and Belonging: Dexter’s struggle to fit in is a classic coming-of-age journey with a clever twist. The story examines the pressure to conform versus the courage to remain authentic. Dexter must decide if he should change his “grandpa” habits to be cool or embrace his true self in an environment that rewards sameness.

Practicality vs. Disposability: A subtle but powerful theme is the contrast between the “fix-it” mentality of the older generation and today’s throwaway culture. Dexter’s ability to repair things becomes a metaphor for mending relationships and valuing what is already there rather than constantly seeking something new.

Why Read Old School?

If you enjoyed Gordon Korman’s masterpiece Schooled, you will absolutely love this book. It shares a similar DNA, featuring a protagonist who is a “fish out of water” entering the chaotic ecosystem of public school.The pacing is rapid and energetic, ensuring that young readers remain hooked from the first page to the last without a dull moment.

Korman balances humor and heart with expert precision in Old School. The situations are laugh-out-loud funny, yet the emotional core of the story is heartwarming. It is an essential read for middle-graders who feel different or anyone who appreciates a story about the collision of two very different worlds. The writing is accessible yet clever, making it a gripping choice for both reluctant and avid readers.

About the Author: Gordon Korman

Gordon Korman is a definitive voice in children’s and young adult literature. He wrote his first book at the age of fourteen and has since published over 100 novels, including bestsellers like Restart, Ungifted, and the Masterminds series. His ability to blend comedy with relatable adolescent issues has made him a favorite in schools worldwide. Adding a Gordon Korman title to your home library in Morocco ensures you have high-quality, engaging literature that encourages a love for reading.

Why Shop at Mabooko Store?

At Mabooko, we are dedicated to bringing the best international literature to your doorstep. We stock original copies from prestigious publishing houses, ensuring you receive a pristine product every time. Our service is designed for your convenience, offering fast delivery to Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Tangier, and all other cities. Plus, we provide a hassle-free Cash on Delivery service, so you can shop with complete confidence.

Conclusion

Old School is a compelling and hilarious novel that celebrates the importance of being yourself, no matter how odd that might seem to others. It is a masterpiece of middle-grade fiction that offers both entertainment and valuable life lessons. Don’t miss out on this gripping story—order your copy from Mabooko today and let Dexter’s adventures begin!