55 pages • 1 hour read
Homecoming
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Connecticut • 1980s
1981
YA
12-18 years
Super Short Summary
Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt follows the journey of four young siblings—Dicey, James, Maybeth, and Sammy Tillerman—who are abandoned by their mother in a mall parking lot in Connecticut. Led by Dicey, they travel on foot and later by bus through New England and the Northeastern United States to reach their maternal grandmother in Maryland, facing numerous challenges and relying on their resourcefulness and the kindness of strangers along the way. The source material includes topics relating to mental illness, domestic violence, food insecurity, and child hunger.
Adventurous
Bittersweet
Emotional
Challenging
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
8,429 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Cynthia Voigt's Homecoming receives praise for its compelling characters and poignant exploration of family dynamics. Readers appreciate the realistic portrayal of the children's resilience but some find the pacing uneven. The narrative's depth and emotional weight leave a lasting impact, though the slow development may deter some.
Who Should Read Homecoming?
Readers who enjoy emotionally rich, character-driven narratives with young protagonists will appreciate Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt. This novel appeals to fans of The Boxcar Children series and Bridge to Terabithia, blending themes of resilience and familial bonds. Perfect for those who cherish stories of overcoming adversity.
8,429 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
James Tillerman
James Tillerman
Dicey's 10-year-old brother, who is academically gifted and introspective, often providing insights into their family's situation.
Maybeth Tillerman
Maybeth Tillerman
The nine-year-old sister of Dicey, known for her quiet resilience and her comforting singing, which keeps the family connected.
Samuel (Sammy) Tillerman
Samuel (Sammy) Tillerman
The youngest Tillerman sibling at six years old, marked by his stubbornness and innocence, fiercely loyal to his family.
Eunice
Eunice
A member of the children’s extended family who reluctantly takes them in, driven by her religious convictions, ultimately struggling with the expectations placed upon her.
Abigail Tillerman (Gran)
Abigail Tillerman (Gran)
The children's grandmother, living in isolation in Crisfield, Maryland, who reveals a caring nature beneath her tough exterior.
400
Novel • Fiction
Connecticut • 1980s
1981
YA
12-18 years
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