Kristin Hannah’s Home Front garners praise for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of the impact of war on a family. Readers appreciate the well-drawn characters and compelling narrative. However, some criticism arises regarding predictable plot elements and moments that feel overly sentimental. Overall, it’s lauded as a moving and thought-provoking read.

Readers who appreciate Home Front by Kristin Hannah will likely enjoy emotionally charged, character-driven narratives that explore themes of family, resilience, and the personal impacts of war. Fans of Nicholas Sparks’ The Lucky One or Jodi Picoult’s The Storyteller will find Hannah's storytelling compelling and heartfelt.

Home Front by Kristin Hannah, published in 2012, follows Jolene Zarkades, a Black Hawk pilot in the Army National Guard and mother of two, as she navigates her deployment to Iraq, the challenges within her marriage to her workaholic husband Michael, and her transformation after returning home with severe injuries. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, duty, and family. The book includes depictions of war, violence, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Emotional / Heartwarming / Bittersweet / Inspirational / Melancholic

**Jolene Zarkades**  
Chief Warrant Officer Jolene Zarkades is a 41-year-old Army National Guard Black Hawk pilot with an ash-gold hair and strong, angular build. She is a devoted wife and mother, known for her optimistic outlook and emotional control.

**Michael Zarkades**  
Michael Zarkades, Jolene's husband, is a 45-year-old lawyer with wavy black hair and a square jaw. He struggles with cynicism and emotions but eventually becomes more caring and devoted to his family.

**Tami Flynn**  
Tami Flynn is Jolene's best friend, fellow pilot, and supportive guide, with long black hair and Native American heritage. She plays a key role in Jolene's life, offering steadfast friendship and encouragement.

**Betsy Zarkades**  
Betsy Zarkades is Jolene and Michael's 12-year-old daughter, characterized by her blond, curly hair and desire to fit in with her peers. She navigates her feelings about her mother's military career and her own adolescence.

**Lulu Zarkades**  
Lulu Zarkades is the youngest daughter of Jolene and Michael, who is 4 years old with long, black hair. She seeks stability and reassurance from her family during important milestones.

**Keith Keller**  
Keith Keller is a 24-year-old Iraq War veteran facing challenges with PTSD after serving two tours. His experiences become pivotal in raising awareness about PTSD and its impact on veterans and their families.

Study Guide

Book Brief

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Book Brief Home Front

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Home Front Summary and Study Guide

Background

Home Front Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “From a Distance”

Part 1, Prologue-Chapter 6

Home Front Part 1, Prologue-Chapter 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-12

Home Front Part 1, Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 13-18

Home Front Part 1, Chapters 13-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “A Soldier’s Heart”

Part 2, Chapters 19-24

Home Front Part 2, Chapters 19-24 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapter 25-Epilogue

Home Front Part 2, Chapter 25-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Home Front Character Analysis

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Themes

Home Front Themes

Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Home Front Important Quotes

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Home Front

Book Brief

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Reviews & Readership

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