48 pages • 1 hour read
Caterpillar Summer
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Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Contemporary
2019
Middle grade
8-12 years
540L
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.
Heartwarming
Emotional
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
3,974 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
3,974 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Henry “Chicken” Gladwell
Henry “Chicken” Gladwell
Cat's younger brother with an unspecified disability, who requires a well-organized environment to thrive and is passionate about topics like sharks.
Mom (Amanda)
Mom (Amanda)
A devoted author and illustrator of children's books, balancing her career with single-parent responsibilities while being a loving but busy mother to Cat and Chicken.
Macon
Macon
Cat and Chicken’s grandfather, who is initially reserved but gradually becomes more open and caring, sharing his interests with them during their stay on the island.
John Harvey
John Harvey
A 12-year-old island resident who initially acts as a bully towards Cat and Chicken but occasionally demonstrates kindness and complexity in his interactions with them.
304
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Contemporary
2019
Middle grade
8-12 years
540L
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