Gregor the Overlander

Collins, S. (2003). Gregor the Overlander. New York: Scholastic

Summary: 

When Gregor is left home alone to babysit his sisters and grandmother, he dives into an old air duct after his baby sister, Boots. It is in that moment that his life changes and he falls into the Underland and meets the ”Underlanders”, humans with almost translucent skin. It is here that he learns about the disappearance of his father, realizes that he is a warrior and a leader and returns home. 

Evaluation Criteria:

Theme: Several themes are expressed in Gregor the Overlander such as love is more than power, good will triumph over evil, and brains will win over brawn. Gregor must find courage as he tries to become the warrior mentioned in a prophecy, but he has no desire for power as the only thing he wants is to find his father who has been missing for two years. Through his journey he is put through different tests and the themes are evident throughout.

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Plot: Collins does a great job at presenting readers a story about courage and sacrifice. The story shows the many aspects of the quest an inexperienced hero goes on in search of a greater good. It shows how Gregor has a mentor, makes sacrifices and is put through different tests and challenges in order to rescue his father and return safely home.

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