66 pages • 2 hours read
Cynthia LordRules
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2006A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Rules by Cynthia Lord, 12-year-old Catherine, dealing with her brother David's autism, forms a bond with Jason, a non-speaking, wheelchair-using boy, through their shared visits to an occupational therapy clinic. As she navigates relationships with new neighbor Kristi and Jason, Catherine faces challenges balancing her desires, family responsibilities, and friendships.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Reviews for Cynthia Lord's Rules praise its heartwarming narrative and sensitive portrayal of autism. Many commend its relatable characters and emotional depth. Criticisms focus on a predictable plot and occasional one-dimensional side characters. Overall, it’s regarded as an insightful, compassionate middle-grade novel, though its depth may vary for some readers.
Who Should Read Rules?
Readers who enjoy Rules by Cynthia Lord are typically young teens who appreciate heartfelt, realistic fiction that explores themes of family and friendship. Comparable to fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, they seek relatable characters and emotional growth stories.
RecommendedReading Age
9-12yearsLexile Level
670L