67 pages • 2 hours read
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368
Novel • Fiction
India • 1890s
1901
Adult
13-18 years
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 The novel includes outdated geopolitical references and addresses colonialism themes.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
39,604 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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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.
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.
39,604 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Teshoo Lama
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.
Mahbub Ali
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.
Hurree Babu
An ethnological surveyor affiliated with the British intelligence, who guides Kim in his espionage training while maintaining a humorous and agnostic outlook on life.
Colonel Creighton
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."
The Kulu Woman
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.
The Woman of Shamlegh
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.
368
Novel • Fiction
India • 1890s
1901
Adult
13-18 years
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