Plot Summary

The Homecoming

Earl Hamner Jr.
Guide cover placeholder

The Homecoming

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1970

Book Brief

Earl Hamner Jr.

The Homecoming

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1970
Book Details
Pages

125

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Historical Fiction

Classic Fiction
Setting

Virginia • 1930s

Topic
Special Occasions

World History
Publication Year

1970

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Homecoming by Earl Hamner Jr. is set on Christmas Eve, 1933, during the Depression, when Clay-boy embarks on a quest to find his father, Clay Spencer, who is late returning home. Amidst dangerous encounters and heartwarming experiences, Clay-boy realizes his ambitions while exploring themes of family, hardship, and the spirit of Christmas.

Heartwarming

Nostalgic

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

1,361 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Earl Hamner Jr.'s The Homecoming is praised for its nostalgic and heartwarming portrayal of a family's bond during Christmas in the Great Depression. Critics appreciate its evocative setting and character development. However, some suggest the pacing can be slow and the narrative occasionally overly sentimental. Overall, it's a touching, if sometimes predictable, holiday classic.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Homecoming?

Readers who enjoy The Homecoming by Earl Hamner Jr. are typically fans of nostalgic, heartwarming stories set in rural America. Similar to those who appreciate Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series or Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, they value familial bonds and simple, poignant storytelling.

4.5

1,361 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

125

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Historical Fiction

Classic Fiction
Setting

Virginia • 1930s

Topic
Special Occasions

World History
Publication Year

1970

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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