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105 pages 3 hours read

Inkheart

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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Cornelia Funke

Inkheart

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

560

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • Contemporary

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

780L

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Super Short Summary

In Inkheart by Cornelia Funke, twelve-year-old Meggie Folchart and her father, Mo, a bookbinder, are pursued by the sinister Capricorn after being visited by the mysterious Dustfinger. Fleeing to Meggie's great-aunt Elinor's estate, they discover Mo's ability to bring book characters to life when read aloud, leading to a dangerous quest to thwart Capricorn's nefarious plans and rescue Meggie's mother, Resa.

Fantastical

Mysterious

Adventurous

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

433,760 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Cornelia Funke's Inkheart offers a captivating tale that delights readers with its imaginative world and charming characters. The prose is vivid and engaging, appealing to both young readers and adults. However, some critics note the pacing can be slow at times, and certain plot twists may seem predictable. Overall, it remains an enchanting read for fantasy lovers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Inkheart?

A reader who relishes Inkheart by Cornelia Funke likely enjoys richly woven fantasy tales with intricate worlds and compelling characters. Fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series or J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit will find Inkheart's blend of adventure and magic captivating.

4.3

433,760 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Meggie Folchart

A 12-year-old girl who lives in a book-filled home with her father, Mo, and embarks on an adventure after a mysterious man named Dustfinger arrives. She is brave and determined and shares a unique ability with her father.

Meggie's father and a skilled bookbinder with a mysterious ability to pull characters and objects out of stories by reading aloud. He is a devoted and loving father who goes to great lengths to protect his family.

A fire-eater who is read out of the world of *Inkheart* and struggles with longing for his home. He is a complex character who often shifts allegiances but helps Meggie's group throughout their journey.

Meggie's great-aunt who initially values her collection of books more than human connection but becomes compassionate and involved in helping Meggie and Mo. Her home becomes a refuge for them after the book's events.

The main antagonist in the story, accidentally read out of *Inkheart*, who seeks power and control. He is characterized by his cruelty and manipulation of those around him.

A loyal follower of Capricorn known for his violent nature and superstition, which often lead to his downfall. He poses a constant threat to Meggie and her allies.

The author of *Inkheart* whose character adds a metafictional layer to the story. He becomes involved in the plot when his creations come to life and interacts with Meggie to impact the storyline.

Book Details
Pages

560

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • Contemporary

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

780L

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