76 pages • 2 hours read
The Memory of Things
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Book Brief
278
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 2000s
2016
YA
12-18 years
HL680L
Super Short Summary
The Memory of Things by Gae Polisner begins immediately after the September 11 attacks, following 16-year-old Kyle Donahue as he evacuates Manhattan. Kyle encounters a girl wearing white wings who has amnesia and brings her home. While worrying about his father and caring for his injured uncle, Kyle helps the girl recover her memories and uncover her identity, forming a strong bond amidst the chaos. September 11th; potential suicide, loss of parents; mentions of genocide, rape, and occasional profanity.
Emotional
Hopeful
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
3,379 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Memory of Things by Gae Polisner artfully captures the emotional aftermath of 9/11 through compelling characters and a gripping narrative. Readers praise its sensitive handling of trauma and the development of the protagonists. However, some critics feel it leans on familiar tropes. Overall, it's a well-crafted and heartfelt exploration of resilience and recovery.
Who Should Read The Memory of Things?
A reader who appreciates heart-wrenching yet hopeful stories set against historical backdrops, such as in The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell, will find The Memory of Things by Gae Polisner captivating. This reader seeks emotional depth, character development, and resilience in the face of adversity.
3,379 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Girl (Hannah Marconi)
The Girl (Hannah Marconi)
A mysterious teenager dealing with amnesia who becomes connected to Kyle, gradually revealing her identity and backstory as the story progresses.
Matt Donahue (Kyle's Uncle Matt)
Matt Donahue (Kyle's Uncle Matt)
Kyle's uncle who lives with Kyle's family after sustaining severe injuries in an accident, providing a subplot of recovery and resilience.
Tom Donahue (Kyle’s Father)
Tom Donahue (Kyle’s Father)
Kyle's father, an NYPD officer on the scene during a major crisis, whose experiences and perspectives offer insights into the events' impacts.
Marcus
Marcus
Kyle's best friend who lives in Manhattan and is involved in the story through phone conversations, highlighting themes of friendship and mutual support.
278
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 2000s
2016
YA
12-18 years
HL680L
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