Zinkoff is largely ignored by other people in his working-class town.

Kirkus Reviews praises Spinelli for 'provid such a steady look at a marginalized child that readers will see past limiting social categories or awkward outsides to the complex mix of past, present, and promise at the core of every individual.' Next Section Loser Summary Buy Study Guide How To Cite in MLA Format Olson, Maxwell. Loser Summary Narrated in the present tense by an unnamed omniscient narrator, Loser opens with a description of Donald Zinkoff, the novel's protagonist. Upon its publication, Loser received positive reviews from critics and readers for its poignant portrayal of a kind-hearted boy who is ostracized for his obliviousness and failure to succeed within a system that rewards abilities he lacks. With no support tailored to his needs and abilities, Zinkoff is left to adapt to the school environment as it is, leading him to be seen as abnormal by prejudiced students and teachers. Zinkoff's lack of self-consciousness, reduced motor functions, and difficulty with penmanship and standardized education are evidence of Zinkoff having a neurological state that is atypical. The book follows Zinkoff from first grade to middle school, detailing an inner life that is upbeat and imaginative despite the bullying, ridicule, and invisibility he faces.Īlthough the novel does not make it explicit, Spinelli depicts Zinkoff as neurodivergent. Despite adversity, Zinkoff remains enthusiastic about school and life. Nicknamed 'Loser' after failing to win a team race, Donald Zinkoff becomes the target for teasing and taunting.

Published in 2003, Jerry Spinelli's Loser is a children's novel about a boy who struggles to fit in with his peers due to his clumsiness, poor grades, and lack of self-awareness.

Loser by jerry spinelli summary