68 pages • 2 hours read
Pictures Of Hollis Woods
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
New York State • Contemporary
2002
Middle grade
10-14 years
650L
Super Short Summary
Pictures of Hollis Woods follows 11-year-old Hollis, a foster child and talented artist, as she finds herself taken in by two families: the loving Regans and the eccentric Josie. Through dual timelines, the novel reveals Hollis' past with the Regans and her present with Josie, gradually uncovering her struggles, growth, and the eventual understanding of love and belonging in her journey to find a true home.
Emotional
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
31,023 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Patricia Reilly Giff's Pictures of Hollis Woods has garnered praise for its poignant storytelling and well-drawn characters. Readers appreciate the emotional depth and authentic portrayal of foster care. Criticisms focus on a predictable plot and occasional slow pacing. Overall, its heartfelt narrative and strong character development make it a compelling read.
Who Should Read Pictures Of Hollis Woods?
Readers who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories like Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis will be captivated by Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff. This book's exploration of themes like family and belonging will resonate with fans of heartfelt, middle-grade fiction.
31,023 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Josie Cahill
Josie Cahill
An elderly, movie-star-beautiful retired art teacher with flowing dresses and an orange cat named Henry. She lives in the woods and is known for being an excellent foster parent to children considered problematic.
Steven Regan
Steven Regan
A 12-year-old with caramel eyes and mismatched socks, who is Hollis's foster brother. An affectionate and disorganized boy, he quickly earns Hollis's trust and affection.
The Old Man (John Regan)
The Old Man (John Regan)
Steven's father and Hollis's foster father, characterized by his cinnamon-toast-colored eyes, gray-black beard, and a structured sense as an architect. He provides a stable and unconditional parental love for Hollis.
Izzy Regan
Izzy Regan
Steven's mother and Hollis's foster mother, known for her tall stature and blond hair. She is a loving person who fulfills her family with food like apple pancakes and candy, symbolizing her nurturing nature.
Beatrice Gilcrest
Beatrice Gilcrest
Josie’s cousin and best friend who runs a local movie theater and shares profound wisdom about art with Hollis. Her trust in Hollis empowers the young girl while also reflecting a less traditional guardian role.
176
Novel • Fiction
New York State • Contemporary
2002
Middle grade
10-14 years
650L
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