When I first picked up The Paper Cowboy by Kristin Levine during a bulk book sale, I had no idea what an emotional journey it would take me on. This compelling story kept me hooked from start to finish, and I felt every high and low alongside the protagonist, Tommy. It’s a book that stays with you long after the final page.
A Captivating Post-War Setting
Set in the 1950s post-war era, The Paper Cowboy is loosely based on the life of Kristin Levine’s father. The story follows Tommy, a young boy whose life is turned upside down when his sister sustains severe burns in a fire. As his family begins to unravel, Tommy is thrust into the role of holding things together—a weight far too heavy for a child.
The book paints a vivid picture of life in a small town during this era, capturing the challenges families faced in the aftermath of World War II. Themes of redemption, responsibility, and the impact of trauma ripple throughout the story, making it both heart-wrenching and hopeful.
A Word of Caution: Mature Themes
One of the most striking—and challenging—aspects of this book is its portrayal of violence against children. Scenes of spanking, slapping, and punishment with a belt are described in ways that border on child abuse. While these moments are critical to the story, they can be emotionally intense and may not be suitable for all readers.
Because of these themes, I would recommend this book for high school students to read independently. For middle school classrooms, it would work best as a read-aloud for grade 8, with thoughtful discussions to unpack the tougher scenes. For particularly mature grade 7 students, this could also be a great read-aloud with the right support and preparation.
Why This Book Stands Out
What makes The Paper Cowboy truly exceptional is its ability to tackle difficult topics with grace. It doesn’t shy away from portraying the complexities of family relationships, mental health, and societal pressures of the time. Yet, it balances these heavy themes with moments of hope and resilience, reminding readers that even in the darkest times, there’s room for growth and redemption.
Levine’s writing is heartfelt and immersive, and her characters are so well-developed that you feel deeply connected to their struggles and triumphs. Tommy is a flawed but relatable protagonist, and his journey is one of self-discovery and learning to take responsibility for his actions.
Recommendations for Educators
If you’re considering using The Paper Cowboy in your classroom, it’s an excellent tool for discussions on family dynamics, historical context, and moral choices. The book also lends itself well to conversations about resilience and forgiveness. However, because of the mature content, I recommend sending a note home to parents if you’re planning to read this aloud to middle school students.
Final Thoughts
As an adult reader, I’d give The Paper Cowboy a glowing 5/5 stars. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that’s both gripping and beautifully written. However, as a teacher, I’d rate it 4/5 stars due to the mature themes that may not be suitable for all middle school readers. With the right approach, though, this book can be a powerful addition to a classroom library or curriculum.
If you’re looking for a story that combines historical fiction with heartfelt lessons, The Paper Cowboy is well worth the read.