Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer

John Grisham has written a number of novels for adults, particularly legal thrillers. Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer is aimed at a distinctly different audience. What elements of this story make it appropriate and interesting for a younger audience? What are the main lessons for younger audiences that the author likely intended? As you think about these questions, you might consider the following:

• What complex issues does Grisham address in this novel? How might his approach to them be similar or different in a novel for adults?
• How do readers come to understand terms and unfamiliar words used in the legal process?
• How does the author provide elements of suspense and excitement?

Teaching Suggestion: In Theodore Boone, Kid Lawyer, the complexities of the legal system are framed in a way that both educates younger readers and inspires their interest. Bobby’s involvement in the plot increases conflict and suspense. In keeping with the intended age range, at no point is Theo’s life under threat for what he knows about the case, and violence is limited to the mentions of the murder. Students might begin this prompt by working with a partner to list likely differences between an adult legal thriller and one for middle grade audiences, then respond independently to the remaining questions.