Critics praise There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom by Louis Sachar for its heartfelt exploration of friendship, self-worth, and personal growth. The characters, especially the protagonist Bradley, are compelling and well-developed. Some reviews note the plot's occasional predictability but commend its emotional resonance and ability to engage young readers effectively.

Readers who enjoy There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom by Louis Sachar are typically pre-teens and young teens who appreciate humorous yet heartfelt stories about personal growth and friendship. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli will find similar themes and engaging characters.

In Louis Sachar's There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom, fifth-grader Bradley Chalkers, who is perceived as a troublemaker, undergoes significant personal growth with the help of a compassionate school counselor, Carla Davis. The novel explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and confronting fears and insecurities, highlighting Bradley's transformation from a misunderstood boy into a kind and likable person.

Emotional / Heartwarming / Playful / Inspirational / Humorous

- There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom was published in 1987 and is one of Louis Sachar's notable works prior to his success with Holes.
- Louis Sachar's inspiration for the school setting in the book comes from his own experiences volunteering as a teacher's aide at an elementary school.
- The book was named a 1988 ALA Notable Children's Book, highlighting its positive reception and impact within children's literature.

**Bradley Chalkers**  
The main character, often described as a troublemaker at school who struggles with social interactions and negative self-image. Guided by interactions with others, he embarks on a journey of self-improvement.

**Carla Davis**  
The new school counselor who provides support and guidance to the students by listening and encouraging them to think independently. She forms a notable connection with Bradley, playing an instrumental role in his personal growth.

**Jeff Fishkin**  
A new student in Bradley’s class who initially befriends him but experiences his own challenges that impact their friendship. Jeff goes through several shifts in his relationships with his peers.

**Colleen Verigold**  
A confident and popular student who leads interactions among her circle of friends. She is central to a significant event in the story and has a crush on Jeff.

**Melinda Birch**  
Part of a trio of friends with Colleen and Lori, known for her assertive personality, challenging traditional gender roles.

**Lori Westin**  
Another member of Colleen’s group, characterized by her spirited nature and loyalty to her friends.

**Janet Chalkers**  
Bradley's mom, who provides a nurturing home environment and supports Bradley through his challenges.

**Claudia Chalkers**  
Bradley’s older sister, often teasing him, but also shows supportive moments and stands up for her beliefs.

**Mrs. Ebbel**  
Bradley’s fifth-grade teacher who initially struggles with his behavior but acknowledges his potential to change.

Louis Sachar

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Summary and Study Guide

Background

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-9

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Chapters 1-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-19

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Chapters 10-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-29

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Chapters 20-29 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 30-38

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Chapters 30-38 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 39-47

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Chapters 39-47 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Character Analysis

theme

Themes

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Themes

Symbols & Motifs

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom Essay Topics

There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom?

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Book Details