65 pages • 2 hours read
Sarah, Plain and Tall
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Book Brief
112
Novel • Fiction
Midwestern Prairie • 19th century
1985
Middle grade
8-12 years
650L
Super Short Summary
In Patricia MacLachlan's Sarah, Plain and Tall, set in the late 19th century on the American prairie, Anna and Caleb Whiting live with their father, Jacob, and dogs, Nick and Lottie, after their mother's death. Jacob places an ad for a new wife and receives a response from Sarah Wheaton, who moves from Maine to join the family. As Sarah adapts to life on the prairie, she and the family gradually bond and grow to love one another.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
89,991 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan is praised for its heartfelt storytelling and evocative descriptions. Readers appreciate its simple yet profound exploration of family, belonging, and resilience. Some critique its brevity and wish for deeper character development. Overall, it is a touching, memorable read particularly suited for young audiences.
Who Should Read Sarah, Plain and Tall?
Readers who enjoy heartwarming historical fiction will be captivated by Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan. Ideal for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series and Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn-Dixie, this book appeals to those who appreciate tales of family, resilience, and gentle, evocative storytelling.
89,991 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Caleb Whiting
Caleb Whiting
Anna’s lively and talkative younger brother, who brings curiosity and a desire for stability to the story as he quickly bonds with Sarah Wheaton.
Jacob “Papa” Whiting
Jacob “Papa” Whiting
The widowed father of Anna and Caleb, who seeks a new life partner to support him and his family on their farm.
Sarah Wheaton
Sarah Wheaton
A strong-willed and kind-hearted woman from Maine who responds to Jacob’s advertisement and considers becoming a part of the Whiting family.
Maggie
Maggie
Matthew’s wife and a fellow outsider, who provides friendship, empathy, and support to Sarah as she adjusts to her new surroundings.
112
Novel • Fiction
Midwestern Prairie • 19th century
1985
Middle grade
8-12 years
650L
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