100 pages • 3 hours read
Out of the Dust
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Book Brief
227
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Oklahoma • 1930s
1997
Middle grade
10-14 years
NP
Super Short Summary
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse is a historical middle-grade novel in verse that follows 13-year-old Billie Jo Kelby, living with her parents on a struggling farm in the Oklahoma Panhandle during the mid-1930s. After a tragic accident leads to the death of her mother and baby brother, Billie Jo and her father must navigate their grief and find a way to hope amidst the Dust Bowl's harsh conditions. The book includes a fatal accident resulting in severe burns.
Melancholic
Challenging
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
80,032 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Karen Hesse's Out of the Dust has been widely praised for its poignant, free verse narration and vivid depiction of the Dust Bowl era. The protagonist’s emotional journey resonates with readers, though some found the verse format challenging. Overall, it’s recognized for its lyrical storytelling and historical insight, despite mixed reactions to its structure.
Who Should Read Out of the Dust?
Fans of lyrical and emotionally resonant historical fiction will enjoy Karen Hesse's Out of the Dust. Ideal for readers captivated by Anne of Green Gables or Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, it offers a poignant glimpse into the struggles of the Great Depression through the eyes of a young girl.
80,032 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ma (Polly Kelby)
Ma (Polly Kelby)
Billie Jo's mother, known for her piano playing and ability to adapt to farm life. She represents stability and work ethic and maintains the apple trees on their farm.
Daddy (Bayard Kelby)
Daddy (Bayard Kelby)
Billie Jo's father, a stubborn and hardworking farmer with a strong commitment to his land and family. He is a veteran of World War I and has a dry sense of humor.
Mad Dog Craddock
Mad Dog Craddock
A 16-year-old boy known for his singing talent, often performing at the Palace Theatre. He has blue eyes and becomes a source of envy and inspiration for Billie Jo.
227
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Oklahoma • 1930s
1997
Middle grade
10-14 years
NP
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