Book Review: Restart
A Fresh Start: A Comprehensive Review of Restart by Gordon Korman
Introduction: A Second Chance at Life
What if you woke up one day with no memory of who you were—only to discover you might not like the person you used to be? That’s the gripping premise of Restart by Gordon Korman, a middle-grade novel that explores identity, redemption, and the power of change.
Korman, a master of contemporary children’s literature, delivers a story that’s equal parts heartwarming and thought-provoking. With his signature humor and keen insight into adolescent life, he crafts a tale that resonates with readers of all ages. Whether you’re a young reader navigating school dynamics or an adult reflecting on personal growth, Restart offers a compelling narrative that stays with you long after the last page.
In this in-depth review, we’ll break down the plot, characters, themes, and writing style, along with my personal reading experience and why this book stands out in its genre.
Plot Summary: A Boy Without a Past
Chase Ambrose wakes up in a hospital with no memory of his life before the accident. He doesn’t recognize his family, his friends, or even himself in the mirror. As he returns to middle school, he quickly learns that he was once the star quarterback—and the school’s most notorious bully.
Now, with a blank slate, Chase has a chance to redefine himself. But the past isn’t so easily erased. Some classmates fear him, others resent him, and a few cautiously extend friendship. Among them is Shoshanna Weber, whose brother was one of Chase’s victims. As Chase pieces together his former life, he must decide: does he want to be the person he was, or can he truly restart?
Without giving away major spoilers, the novel unfolds through multiple perspectives, allowing readers to see Chase’s transformation from different angles. The mystery of his past and the tension of his present make for a page-turning read.
Character Analysis: Who Is Chase Ambrose?
Chase Ambrose – The Amnesiac Antihero
Chase is a fascinating protagonist because he’s essentially two people: the old Chase (a ruthless bully) and the new Chase (a confused but well-meaning kid). His journey is compelling because he’s discovering himself alongside the reader. We see his horror as he learns about his past actions and his determination to make amends.
Shoshanna Weber – The Skeptical Observer
Shoshanna is one of the most layered characters in the book. She despises the old Chase but can’t ignore the changes in the new one. Her internal conflict—whether to trust him or hold onto her anger—adds depth to the story.
Supporting Cast – Friends, Foes, and In-Betweens
From Joel, Chase’s former sidekick who resents his change, to Brendan, a victim who cautiously befriends him, the secondary characters enrich the narrative. Each interaction forces Chase (and the reader) to question whether people can truly change.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique
Korman employs a multi-perspective approach, switching between Chase, Shoshanna, and other classmates. This technique keeps the story dynamic and allows us to see how Chase’s actions ripple through his community.
The prose is accessible yet nuanced, blending humor with emotional weight. Korman avoids heavy-handed moralizing, instead letting the characters’ choices speak for themselves. The dialogue feels authentic to middle-schoolers, making the book highly relatable for its target audience.
Themes & Deeper Meanings
Identity & Self-Reinvention
At its core, Restart is about whether we’re defined by our past or if we can rewrite our future. Chase’s amnesia serves as a metaphor for the universal desire for a fresh start.
Bullying & Forgiveness
The book doesn’t shy away from the consequences of bullying. It raises tough questions: Can victims ever truly forgive? Should they?
The Power of Choice
Chase’s journey shows that change isn’t just about forgetting the past—it’s about actively choosing to be better.
Personal Reading Experience & Emotional Impact
As someone who grew up with Korman’s books (Schooled and Ungifted were favorites), I was thrilled to find Restart just as engaging. The emotional beats hit hard—I felt Chase’s confusion, Shoshanna’s anger, and the tentative hope between them.
One of the most powerful moments is when Chase realizes that his past actions can’t be undone, but he can still make a difference moving forward. It’s a message that resonates far beyond middle school.
Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
Fans of Louis Sachar’s Holes or R.J. Palacio’s Wonder will appreciate Restart’s blend of humor and heart. Like Wonder, it tackles bullying and redemption, but with a unique twist—what if the bully gets a chance to see himself through others’ eyes?
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✔ Engaging, fast-paced narrative – Hard to put down!
✔ Complex, relatable characters – No one is purely good or evil.
✔ Thought-provoking themes – Great for classroom discussions.
Weaknesses:
❌ Some side characters could be fleshed out more (e.g., Chase’s family).
❌ The ending wraps up a bit neatly—though this is common in middle-grade fiction.
Target Audience Recommendations
Perfect for:
- Middle-grade readers (ages 10-14)
- Teachers & parents looking for books about bullying and empathy
- Fans of character-driven stories with humor and heart
Memorable Quotes
“Maybe it’s better to have a life that’s a blank slate than one that’s already been written in permanent marker.”
“You can’t change the past, but you can change the story you tell about it.”
Final Verdict: A Must-Read on Second Chances
Restart is more than just a book about amnesia—it’s a meditation on identity, accountability, and the courage it takes to change. Gordon Korman delivers a story that’s entertaining, moving, and deeply meaningful.
Whether you’re a longtime Korman fan or new to his work, this book is well worth your time. It’s the kind of story that lingers, prompting reflection on how we treat others and the legacy we leave behind.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- Do you think Chase would have changed without his amnesia?
- Should Shoshanna have forgiven him?
- Have you ever wished for a “restart” in your own life?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Happy reading! 📚✨
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