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128 pages 4 hours read

Sophie's World

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1991

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Book Brief

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Jostein Gaarder

Sophie's World

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

403

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Norway • 1990s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder follows fourteen-year-old Sophie, who lives in Norway and begins to receive mysterious postcards posing existential questions and philosophical documents from a man named Alberto. As Sophie learns about Western philosophy, she becomes entangled in a parallel mystery involving a girl named Hilde, leading her to question reality itself.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.3

271,885 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder is widely praised for its inventive blend of novel and philosophy, introducing readers to complex concepts through an engaging narrative. However, some critics argue that it occasionally becomes didactic and that the characters lack depth. Despite this, it remains a thought-provoking and educational journey for readers interested in philosophy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sophie's World?

Readers who enjoy Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder are typically curious about philosophy and enjoy a narrative that combines a coming-of-age story with intellectual exploration. They may also like books such as The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho or Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach, which offer philosophical insights wrapped in engaging tales.

4.3

271,885 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Sophie Amundsen

A curious 14-year-old girl who becomes deeply engaged in exploring philosophical concepts, initially through letters she receives. Her perspective is one of wonder and contemplation, noticing the beauty in everyday life around her.

Sophie’s philosophy teacher and guide, who initially maintains an air of mystery. He is passionate about educating Sophie in the ways of philosophical thought through meetings and lessons.

A UN official and author who writes the philosophy book Sophie is a part of. He is connected to the narrative through postcards addressed to his daughter.

The daughter of Major Albert Knag, who receives messages throughout the story and is linked to mysterious occurrences tied to Sophie. She shares a birthday with Sophie, connecting their stories in unique ways.

Sophie’s caring but practical mother, who becomes concerned with Sophie’s interactions with her philosophy teacher. She supports her daughter’s burgeoning interest in philosophy.

Sophie’s best friend, who engages in philosophical discussions with Sophie early in the story and assists her in planning a birthday party. She represents a slice of Sophie’s normal, day-to-day life.

Book Details
Pages

403

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Norway • 1990s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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