43 pages • 1 hour read
The Family Under The Bridge
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Book Brief
128
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1950s
1958
Middle grade
8-12 years
680L
Super Short Summary
The Family Under the Bridge follows Armand, an unhoused man in early 1900s Paris, who reluctantly befriends the Calcet family, consisting of three children and their mother. As they face eviction and life on the streets, Armand grows close to them, eventually helping to secure a new home and finding purpose in becoming their caregiver.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Nostalgic
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
16,730 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Natalie Savage Carlson's The Family Under The Bridge is cherished for its heartwarming portrayal of an unlikely family’s struggles and triumphs. Readers appreciate its tender narrative and strong character development. However, some critics note that its portrayal of homelessness may seem overly simplistic to modern audiences, lacking deeper social commentary. Overall, the book is praised for its charm and touching story.
Who Should Read The Family Under The Bridge?
Readers who enjoy The Family Under The Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson are typically middle-grade students who appreciate heartwarming, character-driven stories about resilience and family. Fans of The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner and From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg would be intrigued by this book.
16,730 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Suzy Calcet
Suzy Calcet
Suzy is the optimistic and strong-willed eldest child of the Calcet family, notable for her red hair and blue eyes, who values education and sees the good in everyone she meets.
Madame Calcet
Madame Calcet
Madame Calcet is a hardworking mother dedicated to preserving her family's unity despite facing significant hardships and societal biases.
Paul Calcet
Paul Calcet
Paul is the active middle child and only son of the Calcet family, who aspires to be a protector but retains a childlike desire for fun and companionship.
128
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1950s
1958
Middle grade
8-12 years
680L
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