Plot Summary

The Grave

James Heneghan
Guide cover placeholder

The Grave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1995

Book Brief

James Heneghan

The Grave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 1840s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In The Grave by James Heneghan, fourteen-year-old foster kid Tom Mullen discovers a gravesite that mysteriously transports him back to 1847 Ireland during the Potato Famine, where he forms deep connections with the Monaghan family. Struggling with his own identity and the concept of family, Tom's adventures in the past help him uncover his heritage and the true meaning of belonging. The book contains themes of neglect and the harrowing impact of the Irish Potato Famine.

Dark

Mysterious

Emotional

Suspenseful

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.7

299 ratings

62%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

James Heneghan's The Grave is praised for its gripping narrative and well-crafted historical fantasy elements. Readers commend the protagonist's depth and emotional journey. However, some criticize pacing issues and predictable plot twists. Overall, it's a compelling read for those who enjoy time-travel adventures blended with historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Grave?

Readers who enjoy The Grave by James Heneghan are typically middle school to early high school students who are drawn to historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural. Fans of The Devil’s Arithmetic by Jane Yolen or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will appreciate the book’s blend of history, adventure, and emotional depth.

3.7

299 ratings

62%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 1840s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!