55 pages • 1 hour read
Heidi
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Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
Swiss Alps • 19th century
1881
Middle grade
8-12 years
AD960L
Super Short Summary
Heidi by Johanna Spyri tells the story of a young orphaned girl, Heidi, who is taken by her aunt Dete to live with her reclusive grandfather, Uncle Alp, in the Swiss Alps. Heidi quickly adapts to the Alpine life, forming friendships with Peter, a goatherd, and his family. Later, she is sent to Frankfurt to be a companion to wheelchair-using Clara, but she becomes homesick, is allowed to return to the mountains, and helps Clara regain her strength, while rekindling her grandfather’s connection with the community and faith. Themes of disability and death are present.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Nostalgic
Serene
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Heidi by Johanna Spyri is praised for its heartwarming portrayal of a young girl's life in the Swiss Alps. Reviewers appreciate its themes of nature, simplicity, and the transformative power of kindness. However, some find the narrative slow and the characters idealized. Overall, it's regarded as a charming classic suitable for children and adults alike.
Who Should Read Heidi?
Readers who would enjoy Heidi by Johanna Spyri typically appreciate heartwarming, nature-centric stories with strong themes of resilience and the healing power of the outdoors. Fans of Anne of Green Gables and Little Women would find similar charm and uplifting narratives in Heidi.
Grandfather (Uncle Alp/Alm-Uncle)
Grandfather (Uncle Alp/Alm-Uncle)
A gruff and solitary mountain-dweller who becomes the guardian of Heidi, experiencing gradual transformation through his interactions with her while revealing a complex past.
Peter
Peter
A local goatherd and Heidi's friend on the mountain, who gradually opens up to her influence and learns important life lessons through their friendship.
Frau Rottenmeier
Frau Rottenmeier
The strict and overbearing housekeeper in the Sesemann household, whose adherence to rules and order creates tension during Heidi's stay in Frankfurt.
Grannie
Grannie
The blind grandmother of Peter, living in a modest mountain cabin, who forms a deep and meaningful relationship with Heidi, highlighting themes of resilience and faith.
352
Novel • Fiction
Swiss Alps • 19th century
1881
Middle grade
8-12 years
AD960L
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