logo

48 pages 1 hour read

Gillian McDunn

Caterpillar Summer

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Caterpillar Summer by Gillian McDunn, 11-year-old Cat Gladwin navigates family dynamics while caring for her younger brother with special needs during a three-week stay with their estranged grandparents. The experience helps Cat repair family rifts, find support for her brother, and assert her own identity amidst personal growth and new friendships.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Gillian McDunn's Caterpillar Summer is widely praised for its heartfelt storytelling, strong character development, and relatable family dynamics. Critics appreciate the authentic portrayal of sibling relationships and mental health issues. However, some note a predictable plot and pacing issues. Overall, it is recommended for middle-grade readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Caterpillar Summer?

A reader who would enjoy Caterpillar Summer by Gillian McDunn is likely someone who appreciates heartfelt middle-grade novels about family, personal growth, and sibling dynamics. Fans of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Wonder by R.J. Palacio would find similar themes of resilience and empathy.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Carolina • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

540L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.