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56 pages 1 hour read

Heaven

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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Angela Johnson

Heaven

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Heaven, Ohio • 1990s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Heaven by Angela Johnson is praised for its lyrical prose and heartfelt exploration of identity and family. Readers appreciate its strong character development and emotional depth. However, some critique the pacing as slow and the plot as lacking complexity. Overall, it's a poignant coming-of-age story that resonates with teens seeking reflective narratives.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Heaven?

A reader who would enjoy Angela Johnson's Heaven likely thrives on heartfelt coming-of-age narratives, akin to those in Sharon Creech's Walk Two Moons. They appreciate exploring themes of identity and belonging through immersive, emotionally resonant storytelling in a contemplative, youthful setting.

Character List

Marley

A 14-year-old girl who undergoes a significant personal journey after discovering she was adopted, challenging her perceptions of family and identity while maintaining a close relationship with her adoptive parents.

Marley's biological father who, after his wife's death, left his infant daughter to be raised by his twin brother, later reconnects with Marley through letters and acknowledges his love for her.

One of Marley's best friends, grappling with family dynamics and personal struggles, which offer Marley insights into the complexities of familial relationships.

A supportive friend to Marley, he is a young father to a daughter named Feather, providing both companionship and guidance during Marley's emotional journey.

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Heaven, Ohio • 1990s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

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