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Caddie Woodlawn

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1935

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Book Brief

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Carol Ryrie Brink

Caddie Woodlawn

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1935
Book Details
Pages

275

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wisconsin • 1860s

Publication Year

1935

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

890L

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Super Short Summary

Caddie Woodlawn follows the adventures of 11-year-old Caddie Woodlawn growing up in 1860s Wisconsin. Alongside her siblings Tom and Warren, she navigates farm life and school, encounters misunderstandings with Native Americans, and wrestles with societal expectations of femininity. Through her spirited and independent nature, Caddie learns about family, responsibility, and compassion. The book includes themes of cultural tension and loss.

Adventurous

Playful

Nostalgic

Heartwarming

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.4

53,787 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink is often praised for its adventurous spirit and strong, resourceful heroine. Readers appreciate its historically rich depiction of pioneer life, though some find the portrayal of Native Americans dated and problematic. Its vibrant storytelling and memorable characters continue to resonate, appealing primarily to younger audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Caddie Woodlawn?

Readers who enjoy Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink typically appreciate historical fiction with strong, adventurous female protagonists. Ideal for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House series, it appeals to those who cherish tales of pioneer life, family bonds, and personal growth during the 19th-century American frontier.

4.4

53,787 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Caddie Woodlawn

An adventurous and daring adolescent girl growing up in the woods of western Wisconsin who challenges societal expectations while embarking on various escapades with her brothers.

Caddie's older brother and adventure companion, known for taking the lead in their exploits and demonstrating strong family loyalty.

Caddie's younger brother who participates in her and Tom's adventures, often mirroring his siblings' ideas and actions.

Caddie's younger sister who often tells on her siblings and strives for inclusion in their activities, slowly developing a more positive relationship with them.

The patriarch of the Woodlawn family, who supports Caddie’s free-spirited upbringing and exemplifies values of hard work, compassion, and understanding.

Caddie's mother, initially daunted by the wilderness of Wisconsin, who embodies adaptability in her expectations for herself and her daughter.

A Native American man who forms a respectful relationship with the Woodlawn family, exemplifying kindness and fostering understanding between cultures.

Book Details
Pages

275

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wisconsin • 1860s

Publication Year

1935

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

890L

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