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The Silent Boy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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Lois Lowry

The Silent Boy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pennsylvania • 1910s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

870L

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Super Short Summary

The Silent Boy by Lois Lowry follows Katy "Docky" Thatcher, who grows up in the early 1900s and befriends Jacob Stoltz, a boy who doesn't speak but communicates through mimicking sounds. As Katy navigates her childhood and interacts with Jacob, she experiences significant family changes and societal challenges, ultimately leading to an event that profoundly impacts both their lives. The novel features sensitive topics including parental rejection and institutionalization.

Mysterious

Emotional

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.1

7,021 ratings

63%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Silent Boy by Lois Lowry receives praise for its evocative writing and historical accuracy, immersing readers in early 20th-century America. Character development, particularly of the protagonist, is noted as a strong point. However, some critics find the pacing slow and the ending unsatisfying. Overall, a poignant story appreciated for its sensitivity and depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Silent Boy ?

A reader who would enjoy The Silent Boy by Lois Lowry is someone who appreciates historical fiction with emotional depth, similar to those drawn to Anne of Green Gables or To Kill a Mockingbird. This reader values nuanced coming-of-age stories set in early 20th century America, rich in character development and moral complexity.

4.1

7,021 ratings

63%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pennsylvania • 1910s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

870L

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