71 pages • 2 hours read
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308
Novel • Fiction
Rural America • Contemporary
2018
Middle grade
14-18 years
Sadie by Courtney Summers is a young adult mystery novel that follows nineteen-year-old Sadie Hunter as she sets out on a quest to find and confront the man responsible for her younger sister Mattie's murder. As Sadie pursues her revenge, her subsequent disappearance becomes the focus of a podcast called "The Girls," hosted by journalist West McCray, who reconstructs her journey while attempting to uncover her fate. The book includes sensitive topics such as sexual abuse, drug addiction, and murder.
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Suspenseful
Unnerving
126,165 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Courtney Summers' Sadie captivates with its gritty narrative and strong, complex protagonist. Critics praise the book's compelling dual storytelling and raw emotional depth. However, some find the dark themes troubling and the podcast format detracting from the traditional novel experience. Overall, Sadie is noted for its powerful impact and innovative structure.
A reader who would enjoy Sadie by Courtney Summers is likely drawn to dark, gripping mysteries with strong, complex female protagonists. Fans of Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will appreciate its blend of suspense, emotional depth, and themes of justice and trauma.
126,165 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
West McCray
A journalist who transitions from a reluctant investigator to a deeply involved party in the search for Sadie, using his platform as a podcaster to share her story.
Claire Southern
Sadie's mother, whose complex character is marked by a troubled past and a quest for redemption, as she navigates her failures in parenting and her hopes for reconciliation.
May Beth Foster
An important figure in Sadie and Mattie's lives, who plays a pivotal role in initiating West’s investigation while balancing kindness and judgment.
Keith/Darren Marshall/Jack Hersh
The antagonist of the story, whose actions have a devastating impact on Sadie's life and the lives of many young girls.
Marlee Singer
A character living in poverty and struggling against societal and familial injustices, she represents the difficult choices women face.
Silas Barker
A character who presents a facade of success and respectability while hiding a dark and monstrous side.
Javier “Javi” Cruz
A character who quickly bonds with Sadie, embodying the normal teenage life she envies and offering her a sense of kindness and trust.
Mattie Southern
Sadie's sister, whose death is a significant event that catalyzes Sadie's journey and profoundly influences the story through memories and flashbacks.
308
Novel • Fiction
Rural America • Contemporary
2018
Middle grade
14-18 years
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