Plot Summary

The Madman of Piney Woods

Christopher Paul Curtis
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The Madman of Piney Woods

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014

Book Brief

Christopher Paul Curtis

The Madman of Piney Woods

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Buxton, Canada • 1900s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

870L

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Super Short Summary

The Madman of Piney Woods by Christopher Paul Curtis follows two boys, a Black descendant of enslaved people and an Irish immigrant, growing up in Ontario in 1901. They become friends, navigate prejudice, and investigate a rumored mythical figure in the forest. Through alternating chapters, they uncover truths about their families and the mysterious figure's past. The novel contains descriptions of verbal and physical abuse.

Adventurous

Nostalgic

Humorous

Emotional

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,714 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Christopher Paul Curtis’s The Madman of Piney Woods expertly intertwines two boys' lives in a post-Civil War tale rich in historical context and humor. Reviewers praise its engaging narrative and multifaceted characters. Some find the pacing uneven and minor plot elements predictable. Overall, it is celebrated for its warmth and depth, resonating with both young and mature readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Madman of Piney Woods?

Ideal for pre-teens and young adults, particularly those who enjoyed Bud, Not Buddy and The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963, The Madman of Piney Woods by Christopher Paul Curtis offers a blend of historical fiction, mystery, and cultural heritage. Fans of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet will appreciate the adventure and survival elements.

4.2

1,714 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Buxton, Canada • 1900s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

870L

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