44 pages • 1 hour read
The City of Ember
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Book Brief
270
Novel • Fiction
Ember • Distant Future
2003
Random House Children's Books
YA
8-12 years
680L
Super Short Summary
The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau follows 12-year-olds Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow in the underground city of Ember, where dwindling resources and decaying infrastructure spark their quest for a way out. Assigned roles in the city's workforce, they uncover instructions left by the original builders meant to guide the inhabitants to safety. Themes include secrets, selfishness versus selflessness, and the value of curiosity. The book addresses death and loss.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Dark
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
295,657 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau captivates with its imaginative setting and intriguing premise of a post-apocalyptic underground city. Readers praise its fast pace and compelling mystery, ideal for young adults. However, some find character development lacking and the plot predictable. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking read with a strong sense of adventure.
Who Should Read The City of Ember?
A reader who would enjoy The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau is typically a middle-grade or young adult enthusiast who enjoys dystopian settings, adventure, and puzzles. Fans of The Hunger Games and The Giver will find its exploration of a self-contained world and the quest for survival compelling and thought-provoking.
295,657 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Doon Harrow
Doon Harrow
A curious and mechanically-minded boy in Lina's class who lives with his father. He is passionate about machines and seeks to fix the city's failing generator.
Clary
Clary
A strong-looking woman who runs the greenhouses and offers Lina support and guidance. She provides Lina with a lesson on growth through a bean seed.
Mayor Cole
Mayor Cole
The large and unhealthy mayor of Ember, whose questionable behavior raises doubts about his leadership. Presents himself as a figure of authority in the city.
Mrs. Murdo
Mrs. Murdo
A clear-thinking and organized neighbor of Lina’s family. Her home becomes a refuge for Lina and Poppy after their grandmother’s passing.
270
Novel • Fiction
Ember • Distant Future
2003
Random House Children's Books
YA
8-12 years
680L
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