50 pages • 1 hour read
Gossamer
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Suburbs • Contemporary
2006
YA
8-12 years
660L
Super Short Summary
In Gossamer by Lois Lowry, Littlest One, a young supernatural being, learns to weave dreams from memories gathered from household objects under the guidance of her mentors, Fastidious and Thin Elderly. The story unfolds as Littlest One and Thin Elderly protect John, a foster child haunted by his traumatic past and struggling to adapt to his new life with a compassionate elderly woman. The book contains themes of abuse and trauma.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Heartwarming
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
18,015 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lois Lowry’s Gossamer impresses with its lyrical prose and imaginative storyline, offering a unique exploration of dreams and healing. Readers appreciate its gentle handling of complex themes like trauma and resilience, though some find the narrative's pace slow and the character depth lacking. Overall, it’s a touching and thought-provoking read that appeals to both young and mature audiences.
Who Should Read Gossamer?
Readers who enjoy Gossamer by Lois Lowry will appreciate character-driven fantasy with a touch of whimsy and introspection. Fans of Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo, which blend magical realism and emotional depth, will likely find this book captivating.
18,015 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John
John
An eight-year-old boy with a chipped tooth and curly hair who struggles with anger due to a difficult past, he plays a central role in the story’s human elements.
John’s Mother
John’s Mother
A young woman living alone in an unkempt apartment, she is working to rebuild her life while her son is in foster care.
The Elderly Woman
The Elderly Woman
John's unnamed caretaker, who is a lonely former music teacher, helps provide him a safe environment and cares deeply about his well-being.
Thin Elderly
Thin Elderly
The mentor to Littlest One, he is patient and warmhearted, encouraging her growth and development as a dream-giver.
176
Novel • Fiction
Suburbs • Contemporary
2006
YA
8-12 years
660L
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