63 pages • 2 hours read
Night of the Twisters
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Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Nebraska • 1980s
1984
YA
8-12 years
790L
Super Short Summary
Night of the Twisters follows Dan Hatch, a young boy from Grand Island, Nebraska, as he experiences a harrowing night when multiple tornadoes touch down, causing widespread chaos and destruction. Dan struggles to protect his younger brother and navigate the devastation while seeking to reunite with his family and friends amidst the storms.
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Emotional
Hopeful
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
3,446 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Night of the Twisters by Ivy Ruckman receives praise for its gripping, fast-paced narrative and realistic portrayal of a natural disaster's impact on a small community. The character development is compelling, appealing to both young readers and adults. Some critics note that the plot can be intense, which might be overwhelming for more sensitive readers. Overall, it's an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Night of the Twisters?
Readers who enjoy fast-paced, realistic juvenile fiction with a focus on natural disasters, much like those who appreciate Gary Paulsen's Hatchet or Jean Craighead George's My Side of the Mountain, will be captivated by Ivy Ruckman's Night of the Twisters. This book appeals to young readers interested in survival and adventure narratives.
3,446 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Arthur Darlington
Arthur Darlington
Dan's best friend, described as smart and a thinker who loves books; he's considered a loyal friend and often by Dan's side.
Aunt Goldie
Aunt Goldie
Linda Hatch's younger sister who teaches dance and crafts, and experiences significant disruption after the storm.
Linda Hatch
Linda Hatch
Dan's mother, who juggles the challenges of family life and shows her strength during the storm.
John Hatch
John Hatch
Dan’s father and a mechanic who loves engines, especially working on his prized 1953 Corvette, and demonstrates responsibility to his family.
Belle Smiley
Belle Smiley
Dan's elderly neighbor known for her strong spirit; she survives the storm with the help of Dan and his friends.
Stacey Darlington
Stacey Darlington
Arthur's sister and the object of Dan's crush, who offers comfort and support to Dan, especially during the storm's aftermath.
Officer Kelly
Officer Kelly
A policeman who helps Dan, Arthur, and Stacey during the storm and ensures their safety, even after being injured.
Mrs. Minetti
Mrs. Minetti
A police officer at the station who helps to care for Dan, Arthur, and Stacey and tries to reunite them with their families.
160
Novel • Fiction
Nebraska • 1980s
1984
YA
8-12 years
790L
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