49 pages 1 hour read

The Green Glass Sea

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

Ellen Klages

The Green Glass Sea

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Alamos, New Mexico • 1940s

Publication Year

2006

Publisher

Viking Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

790L

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Super Short Summary

The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages is set in New Mexico in 1943 and follows 11-year-old Dewey Kerrigan, a mechanical engineering prodigy, as she moves to Los Alamos to live with her father. Dewey befriends fellow outsider Susan Gordon, and together they navigate life in a secretive town where top scientists are working on the Manhattan Project during WWII. The narrative explores their friendship and experiences against the backdrop of historical developments in nuclear research.

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

8,078 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages has been praised for its rich historical context and well-developed characters. Reviewers appreciate its authentic depiction of life during WWII and the nuanced portrayal of young protagonists. However, some critics feel the pacing is slow at times. Overall, it is commended for its insightful exploration of complex themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Green Glass Sea?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, young female protagonists, such as The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, will be captivated by The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages. Ideal for those intrigued by WWII history and coming-of-age stories.

4.3

8,078 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Dewey Kerrigan

An introverted young girl with a passion for science and mechanics, who lives in Los Alamos during World War II. Her character grows through her friendship with Suze and her experiences in a changing environment.

Dewey’s father, a scientist working on the Manhattan Project. He nurtures Dewey’s interest in science despite being often absent due to his work commitments.

An artistic and somewhat socially isolated girl, living in Los Alamos during wartime. Her evolving friendship with Dewey becomes a key aspect of her character development.

Suze’s mother, a chemist involved in the Manhattan Project. She is compassionate and plays a supportive role in Dewey’s life.

Suze’s father, a physicist who contributes to the Manhattan Project. His excitement over the project’s success contrasts with his wife Terry’s moral concerns.

A trio of popular girls at Dewey and Suze’s school known for bullying them. Their actions challenge Suze’s loyalties and contribute to her character growth.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Alamos, New Mexico • 1940s

Publication Year

2006

Publisher

Viking Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

790L

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