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53 pages 1 hour read

Jeannette Walls

Half Broke Horses

Jeannette WallsFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Jeannette Walls

Half Broke Horses

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Southwest • 20th century

Theme
Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls is a "True-Life Novel" that follows the resilient life of Lily Casey Smith, the author’s grandmother, from her youth in the harsh desert Southwest to her varied experiences as a teacher, rancher, and mother. The narrative, told in Lily’s voice, captures her journey of overcoming personal and historical challenges, ultimately revealing a life defined by strength and adaptability. Lily deals with the suicide of her sister, deceit in marriage, and the hardships of the Great Depression and World War II.

Inspirational

Challenging

Adventurous

Gritty

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

176,207 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jeannette Walls' Half Broke Horses is a compelling true-life novel praised for its vivid characterization and engaging narrative about frontier life. Readers appreciate the strong, resilient protagonist and authentic portrayal of early 20th-century challenges. Criticisms include occasional narrative pacing issues, but overall, the book is lauded for its storytelling and historical insight.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Half Broke Horses?

Fans of The Glass Castle or Educated will cherish Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls. This gripping tale appeals to those who admire strong, resilient female characters and are interested in historical accounts and survival stories with a vivid narrative style. Perfect for readers of memoirs and biographical novels that celebrate perseverance.

4.3

176,207 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Southwest • 20th century

Theme
Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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