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50 pages 1 hour read

Flight Behavior

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Barbara Kingsolver

Flight Behavior

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Appalachian Mountains • Contemporary

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver follows Dellarobia Turnbow, an unhappy farm wife in Tennessee, who discovers a miraculous migration of monarch butterflies on her in-law’s property. This discovery prevents her from pursuing an affair and leads her to re-evaluate her life and pursue new opportunities, ultimately leading to her separation from her husband to build a new life for herself and her children. This book addresses themes of adultery, environmental issues, and personal transformation.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Informative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.8

96,902 ratings

66%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver is widely praised for its lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of nature. Critics commend its compelling characters and timely environmental themes. However, some find the plot slow and the message heavy-handed. Overall, it is celebrated for its thought-provoking narrative and rich storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Flight Behavior?

Readers who appreciate Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver will likely enjoy narratives that merge environmental consciousness with deeply personal stories. Fans of Kingsolver's other works, such as The Poisonwood Bible, or those who enjoy books like Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring, will find this novel engaging and thought-provoking.

3.8

96,902 ratings

66%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Dellarobia Turnbow

A woman in a rural Tennessee town who feels trapped in her circumstances until an unexpected and transformative encounter with a natural phenomenon prompts her to reevaluate her life.

Dellarobia’s husband, who remains connected to his family’s farming traditions and struggles to understand the changes in his marriage.

Cub’s domineering mother, known for her serious demeanor and strong religious convictions.

Cub’s father, a practical farmer dedicated to maintaining the family land and business.

A scientist who arrives to study the unusual butterfly behavior and becomes an influence on Dellarobia’s shift in perspective.

Dellarobia and Cub’s young son, who shows a natural curiosity and interest in science and nature.

Their daughter, whose future symbolizes the generations that will inherit the implications of current environmental changes.

A young and dynamic pastor who plays a role in family and community decisions about the land.

Dellarobia’s lifelong friend, offering emotional support and practical assistance during her personal upheaval.

A news reporter who sensationalizes her coverage of Dellarobia’s story, representing the challenges of media portrayal in rural communities.

Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Appalachian Mountains • Contemporary

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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