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A Gathering of Days: A New England Girl's Journal, 1830-32

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1979

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Book Brief

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Joan W. Blos

A Gathering of Days

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1979
Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Hampshire • 1830s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

960L

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Super Short Summary

A Gathering of Days by Joan W. Blos, presented as the fictional journal of young Catherine Hall in pre-Civil War New Hampshire, portrays her two-year journey through personal loss, friendship complexities, and aiding a self-emancipated individual. The narrative captures daily life and transformative events, culminating in Catherine's departure to assist family. The novel discusses death, enslavement, and racism.

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

8,854 ratings

53%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

A Gathering of Days by Joan W. Blos is lauded for its authentic portrayal of 19th-century New England through a young girl's diary. Readers appreciate the historical accuracy and emotional depth, though some find the narrative pace slow. The book's educational value is praised, but its period language can be challenging for modern readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Gathering of Days?

A reader who enjoys A Gathering of Days by Joan W. Blos would likely appreciate historical fiction with strong female protagonists and coming-of-age themes. Fans of works like Little House on the Prairie and Sarah, Plain and Tall may find this book particularly engaging. The narrative provides rich historical context and emotional depth.

3.9

8,854 ratings

53%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

Character List

Catherine Hall

The protagonist, who narrates the story through her journal entries, is a 13-year-old girl living in rural New England in the 1830s, handling responsibilities at home while learning about the complexities of life. She is deeply connected to her family and friends, especially her best friend Cassie Shipman.

Catherine’s best friend and confidante, known for her gentle temperament and wisdom. A year older than Catherine, she plays an important role in Catherine’s life and offers her moral guidance.

Catherine’s father, a hardworking and patriotic man who values moral lessons and community cooperation. His practical outlook on life and his relationships with neighbors reflect the challenges of rural living.

Charles’s new wife, who becomes “Mammann” to Catherine and Matty. She is strict yet loving, playing a significant role in Catherine’s maturation with her wisdom and affection.

Catherine’s younger sister, who is sweet and trusting, with a tendency to speak her mind. While she looks to Catherine for care, she quickly accepts Ann as a mother figure.

Cassie’s younger brother and Catherine’s companion, who exhibits a strong moral core and often helps the girls. He is instrumental in discussions about kindness and helping those in need.

Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Hampshire • 1830s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

960L

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