Estimated read time: 5 min read
One Sentence Summary
A group of kids devise a plan to retrieve a valuable baseball card after being cheated by a deceitful adult.
Table of Contents
Introduction
"Swindle" by Gordon Korman is a captivating and thrilling novel that takes readers on an exciting adventure filled with mystery, friendship, and the determination to right a wrong. The story follows a group of friends who embark on a mission to retrieve a valuable baseball card that has been wrongfully taken from them. With its engaging plot and relatable characters, "Swindle" is a must-read for readers of all ages.
Brief Synopsis
Plot Overview
The story is set in a small town called Cedarville, where a group of friends discovers an extremely valuable Honus Wagner baseball card in an abandoned house. However, when one of the friends, Griffin Bing, takes the card to a local collectibles shop to have it appraised, he is swindled by the unscrupulous shop owner, S. Wendell Palomino. Palomino offers Griffin a mere $120 for the card, which is actually worth millions.
Determined to right the wrong and retrieve the card, Griffin enlists the help of his friends, including Ben Slovak, Savannah Drysdale, Logan Kellerman, and Melissa Duke. Together, they hatch a plan to break into Palomino's shop and steal back the card. Their mission leads them on a series of thrilling and humorous escapades as they navigate various obstacles and setbacks.
Setting
The story primarily takes place in the town of Cedarville, a quaint and close-knit community. The friends' adventures also lead them to other locations within the town, including the collectibles shop, Palomino's mansion, and the local library. The setting provides a charming backdrop for the unfolding events and the characters' interactions.
Main Characters
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Griffin Bing | The protagonist and mastermind behind the plan to retrieve the baseball card. |
| Ben Slovak | Griffin's loyal and quick-witted friend who plays a crucial role in the mission. |
| Savannah Drysdale | A determined and resourceful member of the group who brings her own skills to the table. |
| Logan Kellerman | Known for his physical strength and willingness to help his friends in need. |
| Melissa Duke | A tech-savvy and intelligent member of the group who contributes her expertise to the plan. |
Story Points Over Chapters
Chapter 1-5
The story begins with Griffin and his friends stumbling upon the valuable Honus Wagner baseball card in an abandoned house. They soon realize its worth and decide to have it appraised at the local collectibles shop. However, they are shocked and dismayed when Palomino dupes them into selling the card for a fraction of its actual value.
Chapter 6-10
Determined to retrieve the card, Griffin and his friends devise a plan to break into Palomino's shop and take back what is rightfully theirs. They face numerous challenges and setbacks, including navigating the security measures at the shop and outsmarting Palomino himself.
Chapter 11-15
As the friends execute their plan, they encounter unexpected twists and turns, leading to both humorous and heart-pounding moments. Their teamwork and quick thinking are put to the test as they race against time to outwit Palomino and reclaim the stolen card.
Chapter 16-20
The climax of the story sees the friends confronting Palomino and executing their daring mission to retrieve the card. The tension reaches its peak as they face the consequences of their actions and the outcome of their high-stakes endeavor.
Main Events
- Discovery of the Honus Wagner baseball card.
- The friends' visit to Palomino's collectibles shop and the ensuing swindle.
- Planning and preparation for the mission to retrieve the card.
- The break-in at Palomino's shop and the challenges faced during the heist.
- The confrontation with Palomino and the resolution of the story's central conflict.
Themes and Insights
Friendship and Loyalty
The novel explores the unwavering bond between Griffin and his friends as they work together to right a wrong. Their loyalty to each other is a central theme that underscores the importance of trust and support in the face of adversity.
Justice and Integrity
The pursuit of justice and the desire to rectify an injustice drive the characters' actions throughout the story. The novel highlights the values of honesty and integrity, emphasizing the importance of doing the right thing even in difficult circumstances.
Determination and Resourcefulness
The characters demonstrate resilience and resourcefulness as they navigate obstacles and setbacks in pursuit of their goal. Their determination serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and creative problem-solving.
Reader's Takeaway
"Swindle" offers readers an exhilarating and entertaining journey filled with humor, suspense, and the enduring power of friendship. The novel's relatable characters and fast-paced plot make it a compelling read for both young adult and adult audiences. Through its themes of friendship, justice, and determination, the story leaves readers with a sense of optimism and the belief that with the support of loyal friends, any challenge can be overcome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Swindle" by Gordon Korman is a captivating and heartwarming tale of friendship, adventure, and the pursuit of justice. With its engaging plot, memorable characters, and meaningful themes, the novel has garnered widespread acclaim and continues to resonate with readers of all ages. Whether it's the thrill of a daring heist or the warmth of unwavering camaraderie, "Swindle" leaves a lasting impression and reminds readers of the enduring value of loyalty and integrity.
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