92 pages • 3 hours read
Home of the Brave
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Book Brief
Home of the Brave
Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2007272
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Minnesota • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
10-14 years
NP
Super Short Summary
Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is a free verse novel about Kek, a Sudanese boy who escapes violence in his homeland and travels alone to the U.S., where he adjusts to a new life while hoping to reunite with his mother. As he navigates language barriers and culture shock, he forms meaningful friendships and finds solace caring for an old cow on a nearby farm.
Emotional
Hopeful
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
14,242 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is praised for its poignant, accessible narrative and compelling protagonist. Reviewers laud its unique verse style and emotional depth, making it ideal for young readers. Some critique the pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, it is a moving tale of resilience and adaptation in a new land.
Who Should Read Home of the Brave?
A reader who would enjoy Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is often drawn to poignant, character-driven narratives that explore themes of immigration, resilience, and adaptation. Similar in appeal to Sharon Creech's Walk Two Moons and Linda Sue Park's A Long Walk to Water, this novel resonates with middle-grade readers who appreciate deep emotional journeys.
14,242 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ganwar
Ganwar
Kek's older cousin who struggles with grief and resentment after losing his hand in a raid, facing difficulties adjusting to life in America.
Nyatal
Nyatal
Kek’s aunt, who has suffered the loss of much of her family and works to provide a stable home for her son and nephew in the U.S.
Hannah
Hannah
A girl living in Kek's apartment complex with her foster family, who befriends Kek and helps him navigate life in America, finding common ground in shared experiences of loss.
Dave
Dave
An employee of the Refugee Resettlement Center who offers guidance and reassurance to Kek as he starts his new life in America.
Gol
Gol
An old cow owned by Lou, representing a link to Kek's past life in Sudan, and becomes part of his journey in America.
Louise (Lou)
Louise (Lou)
The owner of Gol and a rundown farm, who provides a significant opportunity for Kek and Ganwar to contribute positively in their new environment.
Ms. Hernandez
Ms. Hernandez
Kek’s ESL teacher who, as an immigrant herself, empathizes with her students' experiences and provides support and encouragement.
Mr. Franklin
Mr. Franklin
The ESL assistant teacher who works with Ms. Hernandez and encourages Kek to engage with his new surroundings.
Kek’s Mother
Kek’s Mother
A constant presence in Kek's mind throughout the story, representing the hope and reunion he longs for while adapting to his new life.
272
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Minnesota • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
10-14 years
NP
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