85 pages • 2 hours read
Mockingbird
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Book Brief
235
Novel • Fiction
Virginia • 2010s
2010
YA
10-14 years
630L
Super Short Summary
In Kathryn Erskine’s young adult novel Mockingbird, Caitlin Smith, a 10-year-old girl with Asperger’s syndrome, navigates her emotional and psychological growth after her brother's death in a school shooting. Through her love of drawing and words, Caitlin gradually finds ways to understand and cope with her loss, while forming a significant friendship with Michael, the young son of a teacher killed in the same tragedy. The story also depicts how a community unites in the aftermath of such violence directed against innocent children. Gun violence and ableism are present in the narrative.
Contemplative
Emotional
Melancholic
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
36,688 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kathryn Erskine's Mockingbird is praised for its sensitive portrayal of a girl with Asperger’s syndrome, capturing the emotional depth and complexity of her experiences. The narrative is engaging and offers valuable insights into coping with loss. Criticisms include occasional predictability and simplified character development. Overall, it is an empathetic and educational read.
Who Should Read Mockingbird?
Readers who enjoy The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon or Wonder by R.J. Palacio will appreciate Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine. This novel appeals to those interested in emotional, character-driven stories that explore themes of loss, learning, and human connection through the lens of a unique protagonist.
36,688 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Michael Schneider
Michael Schneider
A sensitive first grader with notably sad eyes, who forms an important friendship with Caitlin, as he deals with the aftermath of his mother’s loss with innocent openness and kindness towards others.
Harold Smith
Harold Smith
Caitlin’s father, who grapples with grief following the loss of his wife and son, finding it hard to connect with Caitlin while embodying a journey of emotional resilience and discovery.
Devon Smith
Devon Smith
Caitlin's deceased brother remembered for his empathetic and giving nature, whose presence continues to influence Caitlin profoundly throughout her journey.
235
Novel • Fiction
Virginia • 2010s
2010
YA
10-14 years
630L
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