Why Restart by Gordon Korman Is the Perfect Book for Your Next Upper Elementary or Middle School Novel Study
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for that just right novel to kick off a meaningful unit with your upper elementary or middle school students. You want something engaging. Something that sparks discussion. Something that gets even your reluctant readers to lean in.
That’s why I keep coming back to Restart by Gordon Korman.
With themes of identity, second chances, and personal growth, it’s one of those rare books that hooks readers early and keeps them thinking long after the last page. And if you’re short on prep time (aren’t we all?), my Restart novel study might just be your new best friend.
Why Restart Works So Well in Grades 5–8
Restart tells the story of Chase Ambrose, a boy who wakes up from an accident with amnesia and suddenly sees his world from a totally new perspective. The twist? Before the accident, Chase wasn’t exactly the nicest kid in school. Now he has to figure out who he was, who he wants to be, and whether people will ever believe he’s changed.
It’s a great pick for this age group because:
- The characters feel real and relatable.
- The structure makes it a page-turner without being too complex.
- It opens the door to powerful conversations about reputation, forgiveness, and growth.
Even students who’ve struggled to stay engaged with books in the past find something to connect with in Restart…and that’s half the battle.
What’s Included in the Restart Novel Study
This 3-week literature unit is designed to do more than just check the “novel study” box. It’s built to foster deep thinking, boost vocabulary, and support standards-aligned comprehension in just 30 minutes a day.
Here’s what’s inside:
✔ Student-Friendly Comprehension Activities
- Up to 15 instructional days of short, focused tasks (no busywork here!)
- Print & digital formats (perfect for in-person, hybrid, or homeschool)
- Thoughtful questions that encourage connection and discussion…not just plot regurgitation
- Built-in graphic organizers for extra scaffolding
✔ Daily Vocabulary Focus
- A tier 2 vocabulary word tied to each day’s reading
- Flexible foldable activities or Google Slides format
- Encourages students to build ownership over their academic vocabulary
✔ Teacher Support Materials
- Scope & sequence for easy planning
- Answer keys
- Tips for differentiation and implementation
- Google Slides version for paperless teaching or online learning
How to Use It in Your Classroom or Homeschool
There’s no one “right” way to use this unit, but here are a few tried-and-true ideas from other teachers and parents:
1. Literature Circles or Book Clubs
Assign groups of students different sections of the novel and let them work through the activities together. Each student can take responsibility for a part of the response—summarizing, vocabulary, or discussion questions. This promotes collaboration and deeper discussion without requiring a full-class novel.
2. Small Group or Targeted Intervention
Have students who need more support with comprehension? Use this unit during small-group instruction. The built-in graphic organizers and short, scaffolded prompts help guide struggling readers without overwhelming them. You can even modify the prompts to fit specific IEP or intervention goals.
3. Homeschool Novel Study
For homeschool families, this unit offers a plug-and-play format that works beautifully across multiple grade levels. Each day’s activity can spark a conversation around the table or during a read-aloud. Use the printable version for kids who like pencil and paper, or assign the digital version to help build typing and tech skills.
4. Independent Book Study
If you’ve got independent readers, this can easily become a self-paced reading journal. Assign the comprehension and vocabulary work as part of daily independent reading, then meet weekly to chat through responses, clarify thinking, and connect ideas to broader reading skills.
Why It’s a Win for You and Your Students
What I love most about this format is that it doesn’t feel like busywork. It’s structured enough to guide students without overwhelming them. It helps reluctant readers build confidence, and it keeps strong readers engaged with thoughtful challenges.
Even better? It saves you hours of prep. The trifolds (or slides!) are ready to go. You can print them, assign them, and dive straight into teaching.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re looking for a ready-made, meaningful way to teach Restart that respects your time and keeps students thinking deeply, this novel study might be just what you need.
Whether you’re teaching in a traditional classroom, online, or around the kitchen table, Restart can be a powerful launchpad for connection, reflection, and growth.
