29 pages • 58 minutes read
Nightjohn
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Book Brief
112
Novel • Fiction
American South • 1850s
1993
YA
12-16 years
Super Short Summary
Nightjohn by Gary Paulsen tells the story of Sarny, a 12-year-old enslaved girl on the Waller plantation, who learns to read and write from Nightjohn, an enslaved man who risks brutal punishment to teach others. Through her lessons, Sarny discovers the transformative power of literacy, despite the danger it brings in a brutally oppressive environment. The book includes mentions of violence and sexual assault.
Dark
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
5,806 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Gary Paulsen's Nightjohn receives praise for its powerful portrayal of slavery and strong character development, emphasizing resilience and the pursuit of knowledge. Critics appreciate the raw, unflinching narrative, though some find the graphic violence disturbing. Overall, it's commended for its historical impact and educational value, but its intense themes may challenge sensitive readers.
Who Should Read Nightjohn?
Nightjohn by Gary Paulsen captivates readers aged 12-15 who appreciate historical fiction addressing slavery's harsh realities. Ideal for fans of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor and Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson, this book offers a compelling, educational narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking.
5,806 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mammy (Delie)
Mammy (Delie)
Acts as a mother and caretaker to the slave children on Waller’s plantation, showing strength and courage while protecting them from harm.
Nightjohn (John)
Nightjohn (John)
A brave man who, having escaped to the north, returns to teach reading and writing to the slaves, impacting Sarny's life with his lessons.
Clel Waller
Clel Waller
The novel’s antagonist, depicted as a cruel slave owner who treats his slaves as property, with no redeeming qualities.
112
Novel • Fiction
American South • 1850s
1993
YA
12-16 years
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