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4.0 AVERAGE
4.0 AVERAGE
Loved this book...so much that I didn't want it to end. I understand why it won the Newbery.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Loved the book! Miss Sadie, so sweet and the way she speaks! This is probably one of my top favourite books and will hold a special place in my young heart! But, it is slow at times.
Recommended to those who are a fan of historical fiction books!
A good story :)
Recommended to those who are a fan of historical fiction books!
A good story :)
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I like how the story connects and how it was tied together but like one reviewer pointed out, in Abilene's words, they are universals. It didn't make it bad for me but might not cater to some taste. Still a great read though. I forgot that this was a historical novel so I kind of missed the events that happened the year this book was set. Reading reviews, now it all fits.
"Maybe the world wasn't made of universals that could be summed up in neat little packages. Maybe there were just people. People who were tired and lonely and kind and in their own way and their own time."
Yeah, it was cute. I still think that One Crazy Summer should have taken the Newbery that year. Oh, well. They don't ask me.
This 2010 winner of the Newbery Medal is the heart-warming story of Abilene Tucker who is spending the summer of 1936 in Manifest Kansas learning from Miss Sadie (the Diviner) about Manifest in 1918.
(Note: Miss Sadie has no supernatural powers – just memories and a deep insight into people.)
Vanderpoole kept me on the edge of my chair waiting for the next 1918 installment in the alternating story. I had as much fun as Abilene matching up the people then with those in ‘current-day’ 1936.
There’s a good deal of sadness in the tale, but things do work out for Abilene in the end.
Although YA is not my preferred genre, I found this book enchanting – and would have loved it as a pre-teen. It should become a childhood classic. Recommended.
Read this if: you enjoy stories about small towns and how their histories are made; or you’re 11 years old and want to read a story you’ll remember for years. 4 stars
(Note: Miss Sadie has no supernatural powers – just memories and a deep insight into people.)
Vanderpoole kept me on the edge of my chair waiting for the next 1918 installment in the alternating story. I had as much fun as Abilene matching up the people then with those in ‘current-day’ 1936.
There’s a good deal of sadness in the tale, but things do work out for Abilene in the end.
Although YA is not my preferred genre, I found this book enchanting – and would have loved it as a pre-teen. It should become a childhood classic. Recommended.
Read this if: you enjoy stories about small towns and how their histories are made; or you’re 11 years old and want to read a story you’ll remember for years. 4 stars
Newbery Winner 2011
I really enjoyed this book. The tone reminded me of the narrator in Shawshank Redemption. I also really liked the dual narratives between 1918 and 1936. There was an element of mystery. I also really enjoyed other historical aspects, which I don't want to go heavily into because I'm afraid it will spoil the book.
I don't know if kids will enjoy it as much as I did. I guess some of my friends will have to read it and let me know.
I really enjoyed this book. The tone reminded me of the narrator in Shawshank Redemption. I also really liked the dual narratives between 1918 and 1936. There was an element of mystery. I also really enjoyed other historical aspects, which I don't want to go heavily into because I'm afraid it will spoil the book.
I don't know if kids will enjoy it as much as I did. I guess some of my friends will have to read it and let me know.
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
There are parts that read a little like fan fiction, especially in the beginning, but the writing definitely gets better the farther you read.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism
4.5.
You should read this if you're into:
Newbery Award winners, middle grade historical fiction, lovable characters, coming of age, dual timelines, small town southern charm.
You should read this if you're into:
Newbery Award winners, middle grade historical fiction, lovable characters, coming of age, dual timelines, small town southern charm.