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55 pages 1 hour read

The Song of Hiawatha

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1855

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Book Brief

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Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The Song of Hiawatha

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1855
Book Details
Pages

238

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

America • Pre-Colonial

Publication Year

1855

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Song of Hiawatha is an 1855 epic poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that blends Indigenous and Western influences to tell the story of Hiawatha, a mythic Ojibwe hero, as he embarks on various adventures and unites his people. The poem explores themes of nature, spirituality, and love, embedded in a rich tapestry of American myth and legend. Descriptions of settlers and assimilation may be sensitive for some readers.

Nostalgic

Melancholic

Fantastical

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s The Song of Hiawatha is celebrated for its lyrical beauty, rich use of Native American themes, and rhythmic mastery. However, it faces criticism for cultural appropriation and historical inaccuracies. While captivating, some may find the epic's pace slow and its portrayals dated. Overall, a notable work in American literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Song of Hiawatha?

Readers who appreciate epic poetry, Native American folklore, and rich, rhythmic narration will enjoy The Song of Hiawatha by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Fans of Longfellow's work or titles like The Iliad by Homer and Beowulf will find similar enjoyment in this timeless tale.

Book Details
Pages

238

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

America • Pre-Colonial

Publication Year

1855

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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