50 pages • 1 hour read
By the Great Horn Spoon!
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
California • 1840s
1963
Middle grade
8-12 years
730L
Super Short Summary
By the Great Horn Spoon! by Sid Fleischman follows 12-year-old Jack and his butler, Praiseworthy, as they travel from Boston to California during the 1849 Gold Rush to save Jack's aunt from financial ruin. Their journey includes a shipboard adventure, episodes with thieves and highwaymen, and successes and failures in gold mining, culminating in a new beginning and family reunion in San Francisco.
Adventurous
Humorous
Exciting
Playful
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Readers often praise Sid Fleischman’s By the Great Horn Spoon! for its engaging and humorous portrayal of the California Gold Rush. The vivid characters and historical accuracy appeal to both young and older audiences. Some note, however, that the pacing can occasionally lag. Overall, it’s a delightful and educational read that effectively blends adventure with history.
Who Should Read By the Great Horn Spoon!?
Readers who enjoy fast-paced historical adventures like By the Great Horn Spoon! by Sid Fleischman are typically ages 8-12. Fans of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain or The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman himself will appreciate the humorous, action-packed narrative set during the California Gold Rush.
Praiseworthy
Praiseworthy
An English butler who works for Jack’s aunt and accompanies Jack on his journey, demonstrating loyalty, intelligence, and a sense of responsibility. Throughout the adventure, he reveals himself to be more than just a servant.
Cut-Eye Higgins
Cut-Eye Higgins
The main antagonist, known for his deceitful nature and thievery. He repeatedly creates obstacles for Jack and Praiseworthy in their quest for success.
Captain Swain
Captain Swain
The captain of the Lady Wilma, known for his gruff exterior yet ultimately kind-hearted nature. He is responsible for steering the ship on a crucial leg of Jack and Praiseworthy’s voyage.
Arabella Flagg
Arabella Flagg
Jack’s aunt and guardian who took him and his sisters into her care after they were orphaned. Her financial situation drives the central adventure of the story.
224
Novel • Fiction
California • 1840s
1963
Middle grade
8-12 years
730L
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