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Milkweed

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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Jerry Spinelli

Milkweed

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Warsaw, Poland • 1940s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

510L

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Super Short Summary

Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli follows a young, unnamed orphan boy in Warsaw, Poland, during the Holocaust, who is taken in by a group of orphans led by Uri. Uri renames him Misha Pilsudski and they witness the Nazi invasion. Misha befriends a Jewish girl, Janina, and they struggle to survive as the situation in the ghetto deteriorates. Sensitive topics include the traumatic experiences of the Holocaust.

Mysterious

Dark

Challenging

Emotional

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.3

31,849 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli is praised for its poignant portrayal of World War II through the eyes of an orphaned boy. Readers commend the novel for its emotional depth and vivid historical setting. However, some critics find the narrative occasionally simplistic and the protagonist's perspective inconsistent. Overall, it is seen as a powerful, accessible introduction to the Holocaust for younger audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Milkweed?

Readers who would enjoy Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli are typically young adults with an interest in historical fiction and coming-of-age stories set during World War II. Fans of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne or Number the Stars by Lois Lowry would find a similar emotional and narrative depth in Spinelli's work.

4.3

31,849 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Misha

A young, swift boy who begins the story in Warsaw, known by various names and struggling with the mystery of his identity. His journey through life during a difficult period is marked by his innocence and adaptability.

An older red-haired boy who takes on a protective role, guiding Misha and the others through the streets of Warsaw. He is a leader among the orphan boys, resourceful and caring.

A little girl who starts as somewhat spoiled and resistant to the hardships she faces. Despite her tantrums, she maintains a caring nature and forms a bond with Misha.

Janina's compassionate father and a pharmacist who continues to offer his services despite the challenging circumstances. He becomes a paternal figure to Misha.

Janina's mother, whose health declines upon entering harsh new conditions, resulting in her growing despondency. She is characterized by her sense of loss and despair.

Janina’s uncle, struggling with his circumstances to an extent that impacts his empathy for others. He pursues conversion in hopes of survival.

A boy in the group of orphans who initially teases Misha but becomes a part of their efforts to find food. Known for his lighthearted, clownish demeanor.

A friend of Misha's with one arm, lost to a train accident, who holds a hopeful belief in angels. His fate deeply impacts the group.

A skeptical and grim-faced boy among Misha's companions, often expressing disbelief in any sort of hope or goodness.

A large boy who favors wearing unconventional footwear and is suggested to have a mental disability. He is one of the orphans remaining later in the story.

An unremarkable boy described as gray and unspeaking whom Misha believes to be ill. He is the first of their group to perish in their dire environment.

A kind and real-life physician devoted to caring for orphans, grateful for the help provided by Misha and others.

A Jackboot figure with authority over the ghetto where Misha resides, noted for his ordinary appearance as perceived by Misha.

A Flop known for his terrifying method of killing children, marked by his habit of chewing mint leaves, which serves as a warning scent.

A farmer's wife who assists Misha following an injury, providing him care and urging him to stay on the farm for safety.

Misha’s wife for a brief period, intrigued by his stories but ultimately leaving due to the weight of his past and evident scars.

Misha's adult daughter who searches for her father to welcome him into her life. She has Misha name her daughter, conveying an understanding of his history.

Misha's young granddaughter and delight, bringing him joy and a sense of belonging through her affectionate nickname for him.

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Warsaw, Poland • 1940s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

510L

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