BOOK BRIEF

A Kestrel for a Knave

Barry Hines
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A Kestrel for a Knave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2000

Book Brief

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Barry Hines

A Kestrel for a Knave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

British Literature

Children`s Literature
Setting

Yorkshire, England • 1960s

Topic
Animals

World History
Publication Year

2000

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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Super Short Summary

A Kestrel for a Knave by Barry Hines follows a person named Billy, who faces challenges in a difficult environment. Billy finds solace and purpose in training a kestrel named Kes. Through this connection, the narrative explores themes of resilience, limited opportunities, and the impact of the environment on individuals.

Melancholic

Gritty

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

7,555 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

A Kestrel for a Knave by Barry Hines is lauded for its poignant portrayal of working-class struggles in northern England, capturing the bleakness with vivid authenticity. The novel’s protagonist, Billy, symbolizes resilience, resonating with readers. However, some critics note the narrative's grimness as overly oppressive. Hines excels in character depth and emotional engagement.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Kestrel for a Knave?

Readers who enjoy A Kestrel for a Knave by Barry Hines are likely drawn to poignant coming-of-age stories with themes of working-class struggles and nature. Fans of The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger or To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee may appreciate its exploration of youth and societal challenges.

4.2

7,555 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

British Literature

Children`s Literature
Setting

Yorkshire, England • 1960s

Topic
Animals

World History
Publication Year

2000

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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