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51 pages 1 hour read

Homeless Bird

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2000

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Book Brief

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Gloria Whelan

Homeless Bird

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • Contemporary

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

800L

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Super Short Summary

Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan follows Koly, a 13-year-old girl in India, whose arranged marriage leaves her a young widow. Navigating societal oppression and familial hostility, she eventually finds refuge in a shelter for widows. There, she builds friendships, hones her embroidery skills, and meets Raji, a supportive suitor. As she transitions from reliance to independence, Koly discovers a promising future. This narrative contains descriptions of verbal and emotional abuse, and an attempted sexual assault.

Melancholic

Inspirational

Contemplative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

14,993 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan is widely praised for its evocative portrayal of Indian culture and its compassionate depiction of a young girl's resilience. Critics laud the vivid writing and emotional depth. However, some reviewers feel the characters could be more developed and criticized the book for its predictable plot. Overall, it's considered a touching and educational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Homeless Bird?

A reader who enjoys Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan typically appreciates stories of personal resilience, cultural exploration, and young adult protagonists overcoming adversity. Comparable to readers of Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan and A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park, they are drawn to heartfelt, character-driven narratives.

4.3

14,993 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Koly

A young girl who becomes the central figure of the narrative, navigating the cultural traditions and societal norms of her time, notably involving her journey through an arranged marriage.

Koly's parents, who are tied to traditional expectations but provide her with skills and values that are significant to her development.

Koly's mother-in-law, who expresses harsh and often abusive behavior towards Koly, viewing her more as a burden than a family member.

Koly's father-in-law, who is kind to her and shares a love for reading, offering her limited support and teaching her valuable skills.

Koly's arranged husband, a young boy who is ill and whose marriage to Koly is a transactional arrangement by his parents.

Koly's sister-in-law, whose favorable treatment and differing views serve as a contrast to Koly's own experiences and aspirations.

A young man Koly meets in Vrindavan, who plays a pivotal role in aiding her development towards self-sufficiency and independence.

The compassionate woman who manages a widow's house in Vrindavan, offering Koly and others care and support during challenging times.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • Contemporary

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

800L

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