Weekend Picks for May 23rd

Grace Woytta

Welcome to the Weekend Picks selection for this Memorial Day weekend. May we honor and remember all those who have served our country during this extended holiday weekend.  

For the fourth weekend in a row, we have a recent student of mine (Amanda's) contributing to the blog, with Oakland University teacher candidate Grace Woytta bringing us the work of Gary Schmidt (profiled previously on this blog, but worth revisiting!). 

As an Oakland University student pursuing a degree in English Secondary Education, Grace Woytta has a passion for literature and the power of storytelling. Reading and writing have always been important to her life, shaping her perspective and igniting a love for language. Beyond academics, Grace enjoys hiking and caring for her horses, both of which provide a sense of peace and adventure. Her appreciation for interesting narratives led her to Orbiting Jupiter by Gary Schmidt, a novel resonated through its remarkable themes and unforgettable characters.

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary Schmidt

​Gary Schmidt’s Orbiting Jupiter is a moving and beautifully crafted novel that explores themes of loss, love, redemption, and the power of human connection. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates emotionally powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters.

The novel follows Jack, a twelve-year-old boy living in rural Maine, whose family fosters a troubled fourteen-year-old named Joseph. Joseph has experienced a hard life; abuse, time in juvenile detention, and, most heartbreakingly, he has a daughter he has never been allowed to see. From the moment Joseph arrives, Jack is determined to understand him beyond the troubled past that defines him. What unfolds is a heart-wrenching yet hopeful story of brotherhood and unconditional support.

What makes Orbiting Jupiter remarkable is Schmidt’s ability to write with intensity. His writing is sparse yet powerful, creating a story that lingers long after the final page. The relationship between Jack and Joseph is central to the novel, and their bond develops in a way that feels deeply authentic. Jack’s unwavering loyalty, contracted with Joseph’s desperate yearning to reunite with his daughter, makes for an emotionally gripping read.

While Orbiting Jupiter is relatively short, its impact is immense. Schmidt crafts a story that is both tragic and uplifting, presenting a nuanced look at the realities of foster care, trauma, and resilience. The book does not shy away from difficult topics, making it an excellent choice for readers who appreciate literature that challenges them emotionally and intellectually. 

Gary Schmidt

I highly recommend Orbiting Jupiter for teens and adults alike. It’s an unforgettable novel that speaks to the strength of love, the importance of second chances, and the ways in which even the most broken people can find belonging. Whether you’re looking for a compelling character-driven story or a novel that stays with you long after reading, this book is one you won’t regret picking up.