Plot Summary

Nightbird

Alice Hoffman
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Nightbird

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Alice Hoffman

Nightbird

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sidwell, Massachusetts • Contemporary

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

840L

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Super Short Summary

In Nightbird by Alice Hoffman, twelve-year-old Twig and her mother guard the secret that Twig’s teenage brother, James, has wings due to a family curse. Isolated due to this secret, Twig searches for a way to break the curse, ultimately discovering friendship and self-confidence. Through magical realism, Hoffman explores themes of family, love, identity, and friendship.

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Fantastical

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.1

8,135 ratings

69%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Alice Hoffman's Nightbird enchants readers with its lyrical prose and magical realism. The story’s charm lies in its atmospheric setting and captivating folklore. While some appreciate its whimsical narrative and themes of acceptance, others note a predictable plot and underdeveloped characters. Overall, it is a delightful read for those appreciative of fairy tales.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Nightbird?

Fans of whimsical, enchanting tales like Ella Enchanted and The Secret Garden will adore Alice Hoffman's Nightbird. This reader enjoys magical realism, charming small-town settings, and themes of friendship and family secrets. Ideal for middle-grade readers and anyone captivated by lyrical prose and heartwarming stories.

4.1

8,135 ratings

69%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sidwell, Massachusetts • Contemporary

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

840L

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