109 pages • 3 hours read
Lyddie
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Book Brief
182
Novel • Fiction
Lowell, Massachusetts • 1840s
1991
Middle grade
10-14 years
860L
Super Short Summary
Lyddie by Katherine Paterson follows a determined young girl named Lyddie Worthen in 1843 Vermont, who, after being ousted from her home, works in a Lowell, Massachusetts factory to reunite her family and reclaim their farm. The novel explores themes of perseverance, labor exploitation, and the fight for independence as Lyddie navigates the hardships of industrial life and her evolving dreams. This novel contains depictions of children experiencing hunger, poverty, and neglect, as well as themes of corporate exploitation, enslavement, and sexual assault.
Challenging
Inspirational
Gritty
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
7,719 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lyddie by Katherine Paterson receives praise for its compelling historical setting and strong protagonist, whose journey inspires readers. Critics appreciate the depiction of 19th-century mill life and its social issues. However, some find the pacing uneven and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, it’s a valuable read for its historical insight and character depth.
Who Should Read Lyddie?
Readers who appreciate Lyddie by Katherine Paterson are typically young adults who enjoy historical fiction with strong, resilient protagonists. Fans of Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder or Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will likely find Lyddie appealing for its rich historical context and inspiring character journey.
7,719 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
182
Novel • Fiction
Lowell, Massachusetts • 1840s
1991
Middle grade
10-14 years
860L
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