BOOK BRIEF

Countdown (The Sixties Trilogy, #1)

Deborah Wiles
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Countdown (The Sixties Trilogy, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2010

Book Brief

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Deborah Wiles

Countdown (The Sixties Trilogy, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

394

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Washington, D.C. • 1960s

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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Super Short Summary

Countdown by Deborah Wiles follows Franny Chapman, an everyday girl who experiences the tensions of the 1960s Cold War era. Against the backdrop of fear and uncertainty, she navigates family dynamics, friendship challenges, and growing up. The story blends historical details with Franny's personal journey, capturing a pivotal moment in American history through her eyes.

Reviews & Readership

4.2

11,084 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Countdown by Deborah Wiles is lauded for its vivid portrayal of the Cuban Missile Crisis era, blending historical context with a compelling personal narrative. Readers appreciate the engaging, well-researched storytelling and rich, relatable characters. However, some find the inclusion of documentary-style inserts disruptive. Overall, it's an educational and emotive read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Countdown (The Sixties Trilogy, #1)?

Countdown by Deborah Wiles will captivate middle-grade readers who enjoy history, coming-of-age stories, and richly layered narratives. Fans of The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt or When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead will appreciate its blend of historical context and heartfelt personal growth.

4.2

11,084 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

394

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Washington, D.C. • 1960s

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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