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The Indian in the Cupboard

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1980

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Book Brief

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Lynne Reid Banks

The Indian in the Cupboard

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1980
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1980s

Publication Year

1980

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks follows Omri, a boy who discovers that a cupboard, along with a special key, can turn plastic toys into living beings, including an Indigenous American figurine named Little Bear. Omri navigates the challenges and responsibilities of having miniature real people in his care, assisted by his friend Patrick, leading to various adventures and moral lessons about empathy and respect. The book contains themes of cultural stereotyping regarding Indigenous Americans.

Fantastical

Adventurous

Playful

Nostalgic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.3

113,098 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks has been praised for its imaginative premise, engaging storytelling, and the depth of its characters. However, some reviews delve into concerns about cultural representation and dated stereotypes. Overall, it remains a beloved children's classic and a thought-provoking read for young audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Indian in the Cupboard?

Fans of imaginative tales with heartfelt themes, such as those in The Chronicles of Narnia or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, will enjoy Lynne Reid Banks' The Indian in the Cupboard. Ideal for readers aged 8-12, it combines adventure, magic, and the deepening bonds of friendship, engaging young minds with a blend of fantasy and reality.

4.3

113,098 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1980s

Publication Year

1980

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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