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43 pages 1 hour read

The Explorer

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Katherine Rundell

The Explorer

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amazon Rainforest • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

The Explorer by Katherine Rundell follows four children who survive a plane crash in the Amazon rainforest. As they struggle to find their way back to civilization, they encounter challenges that test their courage and resilience. Through teamwork and resourcefulness, they discover the mysterious figure of an explorer who changes their journey.

Adventurous

Emotional

Suspenseful

Fantastical

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Explorer by Katherine Rundell has been praised for its vivid descriptive language that brings the Amazon jungle to life, capturing the sense of adventure and survival. The characters are well-developed, showcasing growth and resilience. Some readers feel the pacing slows in parts, but the overall message of exploration and friendship resonates well.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Explorer?

A reader who revels in adventurous tales and survival stories akin to Hatchet by Gary Paulsen or Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell would enjoy Katherine Rundell's The Explorer. Young readers who admire courage, exploration, and teamwork will find this gripping Amazonian adventure captivating.

Character List

Fred

Fred is the sensible protagonist who wakes up after a plane crash in the Amazon, where he attempts to lead the group and impress his absent father through courage and resourcefulness. His adventures in the jungle offer him an unexpected chance to prove himself and explore his own potential.

The explorer is a rugged pilot who imparts survival skills and wisdom to the children after they find him living in the jungle. He assists the children in their journey towards Manaus and fosters their appreciation for the natural world.

Con is a sharp and initially brash character whose tough exterior hides a desire for friendship and freedom. Throughout the story, she transforms from distrustful and isolated to a loyal and adventurous member of the group.

Lila is Max’s protective older sister, known for her logical demeanor and extensive jungle knowledge, which aids the group’s survival. She takes care of her younger brother and eventually adopts a baby sloth named Abacaxi.

Max is the youngest member and brother to Lila, known for his vulnerability and reliance on the group but also his curiosity and observant nature. His adventurous spirit occasionally leads him into trouble, impacting the group's decisions.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amazon Rainforest • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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