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49 pages 1 hour read

A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Henry Cole

A Nest for Celeste

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Louisiana • 1820s

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

730L

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Super Short Summary

In Henry Cole's illustrated children's novel A Nest for Celeste, a gentle and resourceful mouse named Celeste lives in a 19th-century Louisiana plantation house where John James Audubon arrives to paint North American birds. As Audubon pursues his artistic endeavors, Celeste embarks on her own quest to find a new home and friends. The story explores themes of home, art, and friendship and includes depictions of gun violence and animal deaths.

Heartwarming

Adventurous

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,148 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

A Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole is praised for its charming illustrations and heartwarming story. It successfully combines historical elements with the tale of a small mouse, appealing to both children and adults. However, some readers feel the plot is predictable and the character development could be deeper. Overall, it's a delightful read that captivates with its visual and narrative appeal.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Nest for Celeste?

Readers who delight in charming animal tales and richly illustrated adventures will find A Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole captivating. Fans of E. B. White's Charlotte's Web and Kate DiCamillo's The Tale of Despereaux will especially appreciate this heartwarming story of friendship and bravery.

4.3

4,148 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Celeste

A timid and resourceful mouse with tawny-colored fur and deep brown eyes, whose adventures and friendships guide the storyline. She navigates challenges from both fellow mice and humans at Oakley Plantation.

A gentle and lonely young apprentice with chestnut hair and pale blue eyes, who befriends Celeste. His kindness provides her with protection and companionship.

A tall and proud artist with auburn hair, who is determined to paint every bird species in North America. His ambitious nature and unconventional methods impact both human and animal characters.

A wood thrush with a yellow bill and creamy white breast feathers, who forms a quick friendship with Celeste. He inspires others through his curiosity and beautiful song.

A jovial and majestic osprey with golden yellow eyes and a sharp beak, who becomes a key ally and friend to Celeste. His cheerful personality and willingness to help are crucial to the story.

A large gray rat with a raspy voice, serving as an antagonist through her bullying and greedy nature. Her actions create challenges and obstacles for Celeste.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Louisiana • 1820s

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

730L

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