Plot Summary

A Bone from a Dry Sea

Peter Dickinson
Guide cover placeholder

A Bone from a Dry Sea

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1992

Book Brief

Peter Dickinson

A Bone from a Dry Sea

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

African Coast • Prehistoric

Publication Year

1992

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

980L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

A Bone from a Dry Sea by Peter Dickinson intertwines the stories of Vinny, a teen joining her archaeologist father on a dig in Africa, and Li, a hominid child from four million years ago. Vinny helps uncover a groundbreaking discovery linking Li's tribe to aquatic life, revealing how Li's innovations with tools and cooperation with dolphins left a lasting impact.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Adventurous

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

3.8

620 ratings

57%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Peter Dickinson's A Bone from a Dry Sea intertwines past and present through the lens of human evolution, drawing praise for its imaginative narrative and vivid descriptions. While some critics laud its insightful themes and engaging storytelling, others find the pacing uneven and the dual timeline structure occasionally confusing. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read enriched by its unique perspective.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Bone from a Dry Sea?

A reader who enjoys A Bone from a Dry Sea by Peter Dickinson is likely intrigued by prehistoric settings, intelligent heroines, and parallel narratives. Fans of Jean Auel's The Clan of the Cave Bear or Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park would appreciate the rich blend of science, history, and adventure in this novel.

3.8

620 ratings

57%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

African Coast • Prehistoric

Publication Year

1992

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

980L

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!