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53 pages 1 hour read

Orphan Island

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Laurel Snyder

Orphan Island

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

650L

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Super Short Summary

Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder follows Jinny, the newly appointed "Elder" of a magical island inhabited by nine children, where each year a boat brings a new toddler and takes the oldest child away. Jinny grows attached to her "Care," Ess, and struggles with her responsibilities and the island's rules. When a new child arrives and Jinny's time to leave comes, she faces the consequences of defying the island's system.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder captivates with its unique premise, drawing readers into a mystical and isolated setting. Many appreciate its beautiful prose and emotional depth. However, some find the ending unsatisfying and ambiguous. Despite this, it is praised for its imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking themes, making it a worthwhile read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Orphan Island?

Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder will captivate readers who enjoy poignant, coming-of-age tales with a touch of magical realism. Fans of Lois Lowry’s The Giver and Jeanne DuPrau’s The City of Ember will appreciate the novel’s exploration of societal rules and personal growth amidst an enigmatic setting. Ideal for middle-grade to early teen readers.

Character List

Jinny

The novel’s protagonist, Jinny is about 12 or 13 years old and becomes the island's "Elder" after her best friend, Deen, leaves. She is responsible for taking care of the younger children, particularly her Care, Ess.

Ess is a curious and affectionate child around three or four years old who arrives on the island the same day Deen leaves, becoming Jinny’s Care. She shares a close, sibling-like bond with Jinny.

Jinny’s best friend, Deen leaves the island at the beginning of the novel but serves as a memory and guide for Jinny throughout the story. He believes in following the island's rules and becomes a source of inspiration for Jinny.

One year younger than Jinny, Ben is supposed to learn from her how to be an Elder. He is responsible, kind, and takes on many responsibilities, acting as a support for Jinny.

A girl close in age to Jinny, Joon is practical, quick, and resourceful. She helps lead the group and teaches Jinny valuable lessons about group dynamics and responsibilities.

A younger girl on the island, Eevie frequently questions the island's rules and sometimes clashes with Jinny. As a complex character, she resembles Jinny in her skepticism.

The youngest on the island before Ess arrives, Sam was Deen's care and is gentle, cooperative, and curious. He looks up to Jinny after Deen leaves, reminding her of her broader responsibilities.

Arriving on the island when Jinny's time to leave has come, Loo is noisy and adventurous. He tests Jinny's patience and skills as an Elder.

The name found in all the books left on the island, Abbie Ellis wrote notes in the margins that entertain and provoke thought among the children. Her presence raises questions about the island's purpose and the children's origins.

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

650L

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