Plot Summary

Gentlehands

M.E. Kerr
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Gentlehands

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1978

Book Brief

M.E. Kerr

Gentlehands

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1978
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Long Island, New York • 1970s

Publication Year

1978

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

830L

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Super Short Summary

Gentlehands by M.E. Kerr explores class differences and the complexities of family through the story of Buddy, a sheriff's son, and Skye, a wealthy CEO's daughter, who fall in love while uncovering the dark secret of Buddy's mysterious grandfather, which a reporter tries to expose, all transpiring within the broader theme of a young adult coming-of-age journey. This work addresses antisemitism and war crimes committed during the Holocaust.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Emotional

Bittersweet

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

777 ratings

52%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

In Gentlehands, M.E. Kerr crafts a compelling exploration of class, prejudice, and family secrets. Praised for its nuanced characters and vivid prose, the novel effectively delves into complex social themes. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the climax underwhelming. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that garners mixed, yet largely positive reactions.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gentlehands?

Readers who would enjoy Gentlehands by M.E. Kerr are typically teens and young adults who appreciate complex, coming-of-age stories with historical depth. Fans of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne will find this novel's blend of personal growth and historical context engaging.

3.9

777 ratings

52%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Long Island, New York • 1970s

Publication Year

1978

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

830L

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