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Poppy

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1995

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Book Brief

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Avi

Poppy

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

162

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dimwood Forest • Contemporary

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

Poppy by Avi follows a brave mouse named Poppy who, after the death of her fiancé Ragweed, seeks to free her family from the tyrannical rule of Mr. Ocax, a great horned owl who controls the mice with fear and manipulation. Through her journey, Poppy uncovers Mr. Ocax's vulnerabilities, forms an unlikely friendship, and learns valuable lessons about heroism, fear, and challenging oppressive systems. The novel includes depictions of violence and predation.

Adventurous

Emotional

Inspirational

Exciting

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

10,818 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Poppy by Avi captivates readers with its enchanting woodland setting and strong character development. The gripping story of Poppy, a brave mouse, against the tyrannical owl Mr. Ocax, showcases themes of courage and independence. Critiques note occasional predictability in the plot, yet commend the book’s charming prose and valuable life lessons for young readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Poppy?

Readers who would enjoy Poppy by Avi appreciate adventurous animal tales marked by bravery and friendship. Fans of E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web or Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows will find this story engaging, as it combines intriguing characters and life lessons suitable for middle-grade readers.

4.4

10,818 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Poppy

A determined mouse who becomes a courageous hero on a quest to protect her family from an oppressive ruler in the Dimwood Forest. Her journey is prompted by the events surrounding her boyfriend Ragweed.

A great horned owl who maintains control over the forest's creatures, particularly the mice, through fear and intimidation. He is a formidable and antagonistic force in the story.

A porcupine with a gruff exterior who becomes an invaluable friend and ally to Poppy. His insights help her see things from a different perspective during her journey.

Poppy’s bold and unconventional boyfriend who influences her thoughts and actions even after his untimely death. He encourages Poppy to question authority and seek freedom.

Poppy’s father, who leads Gray House and upholds the existing social order. He is portrayed as supportive of Mr. Ocax's authority over the mice.

Poppy’s nervous and passive mother who does not vocally challenge the influence of Mr. Ocax. Her demeanor contrasts with Poppy's growing courage and resistance.

Book Details
Pages

162

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dimwood Forest • Contemporary

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

670L

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