56 pages • 1 hour read
News of the World
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Texas • 1870s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Paulette Jiles's novel News of the World, 72-year-old Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd is tasked with escorting 10-year-old Johanna Leonberger, who was kidnapped by the Kiowa, from Wichita to her relatives in Castroville, Texas, in 1870. As they navigate the perils of post-Civil War Texas, including bandits and cultural clashes, they form a deep bond that profoundly changes their lives.
Adventurous
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
143,464 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
News of the World by Paulette Jiles is lauded for its evocative prose and rich historical detail, transporting readers to post-Civil War Texas. The emotional journey between Captain Kidd and the young girl captivates many, though some find the pacing uneven. It excels in character development and atmospheric storytelling, making it a recommended read despite minor flaws.
Who Should Read News of the World?
Fans of historical fiction who appreciated the rich detail in Cold Mountain or the journeying narratives found in Lonesome Dove will enjoy News of the World by Paulette Jiles. Ideal for readers who relish character-driven stories set in post-Civil War America, it offers an evocative, emotional tale of redemption and unlikely companionship.
143,464 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
176
Novel • Fiction
Texas • 1870s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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