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Jacob Have I Loved

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1980

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Book Brief

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Katherine Paterson

Jacob Have I Loved

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1980
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rass Island, Maryland • 1940s

Publication Year

1980

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

880L

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Super Short Summary

Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson is a 1940s coming-of-age novel about Sara Louise Bradshaw, a teenager navigating a difficult relationship with her twin sister Caroline on a crab-fishing island in Chesapeake Bay. Facing sibling rivalry and struggles with faith, Louise seeks her own identity and purpose while grappling with family and community expectations. The novel includes a depiction of a 14-year-old girl developing romantic feelings for an older man.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

35,819 ratings

60%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Katherine Paterson's Jacob Have I Loved is highly praised for its complex characters and emotional depth, exploring sibling rivalry and self-discovery. Critics appreciate its evocative prose and rich setting but note some predictable plot elements. Overall, the novel is lauded for its thoughtful and nuanced portrayal of adolescence.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Jacob Have I Loved?

Readers who relish coming-of-age tales with deep emotional journeys, such as in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee or A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith, will appreciate Katherine Paterson's Jacob Have I Loved. This novel speaks to those who enjoy complex sibling dynamics and rich, introspective narratives.

4.1

35,819 ratings

60%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Sara Louise Bradshaw

Known as "Louise" or "Wheeze," she is the narrator and protagonist who struggles with feelings of neglect and jealousy towards her twin sister. Louise is characterized by her imaginative nature and her desire to leave the small island where she lives.

Louise's twin sister, who is perceived as dainty and talented, particularly in music. She is the focus of much of the family's attention due to her singing abilities.

Louise and Caroline's parents, with Truitt working as a crab fisherman and Susan arriving on Rass Island with dreams of teaching. They are seen as giving more attention to Caroline's musical talents.

Truitt’s mother, noted for her devout Methodist beliefs and harsh remarks. She is one of the few characters aware of Louise’s deeper feelings, despite her often critical nature.

Louise’s only friend, noted for his pragmatism and mature before his time due to family responsibilities. He contributes significantly to the community and later enlists in the Navy during WWII.

An elderly man who returns to Rass Island and befriends Louise and Call. Known for his wisdom and willingness to encourage others to take ownership of their lives.

An eccentric island resident who lives with many stray cats and strikes friendships with the Captain and Caroline. She enjoys music and has a mysterious financial background.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rass Island, Maryland • 1940s

Publication Year

1980

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

880L

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