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The River Between Us

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003

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Richard Peck

The River Between Us

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

164

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Southern Illinois • 1860s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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Super Short Summary

The River Between Us by Richard Peck, a young adult historical fiction novel, follows 15-year-old Howard Hutchings and his twin brothers from St. Louis to Grand Tower, Illinois, where they discover their family's Civil War history. Grandma Tilly recounts how two mysterious women, Delphine and Calinda, altered their lives, revealing deep family secrets. The novel addresses racism, enslavement, graphic violence, and death by suicide.

Emotional

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

5,419 ratings

65%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews for Richard Peck's The River Between Us generally praise its well-researched historical context and vivid character development. Some readers appreciate its engaging narrative and emotional depth. However, criticisms include a slow pacing and complex timelines that may confuse younger readers. Overall, the novel is lauded for its richly woven portrayal of family and identity amidst the backdrop of the Civil War.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The River Between Us?

The ideal reader for Richard Peck's The River Between Us enjoys historical fiction with a blend of mystery and coming-of-age themes. Fans of Ann Rinaldi's The Last Silk Dress or Lois Lowry's Number the Stars will appreciate the rich historical context and poignant character development characteristic of this novel.

4.2

5,419 ratings

65%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Tilly Pruitt

A fifteen-year-old girl living with her family, who serves as the primary narrator. She is dependable and takes on significant responsibilities within her household.

A young woman from New Orleans who arrives in Grand Tower and captures attention with her striking presence and charm. Her interactions with Tilly play a significant role in the narrative.

Tilly’s twin brother and Mama’s favorite, who has aspirations outside their small town. He is associated with the local Union-supporting boys.

The younger sister of Tilly and Noah, known for her thin appearance and prophetic visions that add an eerie element to the story.

A quiet and industrious young woman accompanying Delphine, whose practical skills and mysterious background support the Pruitt family through challenging times.

Tilly and Noah’s strong-willed mother, who manages their household but struggles with the absence of her husband and the challenges of raising her children alone.

A steady and kind doctor who plays a supportive role by helping soldiers and contributing to Tilly's life.

A 15-year-old boy who appears in the framing story of the novel, seeking to learn more about his family's past through his grandmother's narrative.

Book Details
Pages

164

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Southern Illinois • 1860s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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