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Kim

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1901

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Book Brief

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Rudyard Kipling

Kim

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1901
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • 1890s

Publication Year

1901

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Kim by Rudyard Kipling follows the adventures of Kimball O’Hara, an Irish orphan in British India, as he navigates a richly diverse cultural landscape, becoming the disciple of a Buddhist lama on a quest for enlightenment while also being drawn into espionage activities for the British intelligence. The novel includes outdated geopolitical references and addresses colonialism themes.

Adventurous

Mysterious

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Informative

Reviews & Readership

3.9

39,604 ratings

60%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Readers praise Kim for its vivid descriptions and immersive portrayal of colonial India, appreciating its adventurous plot and deep cultural insights. However, some critique its colonial perspective and dated stereotypes. Its complex characters and rich narrative continue to captivate many despite these criticisms.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Kim?

Readers who enjoy adventure, historical settings, and rich cultural explorations will be captivated by Kim by Rudyard Kipling. Similar to the audience of The Jungle Book or The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, these readers appreciate coming-of-age stories set against the backdrop of exotic locales and complex social dynamics.

3.9

39,604 ratings

60%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Kim (Kimball O’Hara)

An adventurous and charming orphan of Irish descent who navigates the streets of Lahore with ease, Kim is caught between two worlds and struggles with his identity as he is drawn into the world of British espionage in India.

A Buddhist lama on a spiritual quest to find enlightenment at the legendary Arrow River, who becomes Kim's mentor and traveling companion, offering him guidance and wisdom throughout their journey.

A Muslim horse trader who works with the British intelligence agency, using his travels to gather and pass on important information, serving as a mentor to Kim in espionage activities.

An ethnological surveyor affiliated with the British intelligence, who guides Kim in his espionage training while maintaining a humorous and agnostic outlook on life.

An intelligent and capable officer in charge of British ethnological and intelligence operations, who plays a significant but subdued role in Kim’s development within the "Great Game."

A sharp-tongued, wise widow of a hill-rajah who provides hospitality and practical perspective during Kim and the lama's travels, lending support to their journey at crucial times.

A provider of sanctuary to Kim and the lama during a period of pursuit, who shares her story of personal loss and challenges the characters' idealistic views with her grounded reality.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • 1890s

Publication Year

1901

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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