Plot Summary

Of Nightingales That Weep

Katherine Paterson
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Of Nightingales That Weep

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1974

Book Brief

Katherine Paterson

Of Nightingales That Weep

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1974
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Japan • 12th Century

Publication Year

1974

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

950L

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Super Short Summary

In the children's novel Of Nightingales That Weep (1974), Chinese American author Katherine Paterson presents an epic historic adventure set in medieval Japan, centering on eleven-year-old Takiko and the journey that takes her to the Emperor's court. Of Nightingales That Weep is a story about courage and honor, family and duty, and the eternal question of whether a person can ever, truly, go home again. Topics in this book include the deaths of loved ones and depictions of warfare and its aftermath.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

824 ratings

51%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

21%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Of Nightingales That Weep by Katherine Paterson captivates readers with its rich historical setting and well-developed characters. The novel's lyrical prose and emotional depth are widely praised. However, some find the pacing slow and the plot predictable. Overall, it is appreciated for its vivid storytelling and cultural insight.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Of Nightingales That Weep?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, emotional narratives will appreciate Of Nightingales That Weep by Katherine Paterson. Fans of The Tale of the Heike and The Midwife's Apprentice will be drawn to its richly detailed setting in feudal Japan and its focus on personal growth amid cultural upheaval.

4.0

824 ratings

51%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

21%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Japan • 12th Century

Publication Year

1974

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

950L

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