Plot Summary

The Things a Brother Knows

Dana Reinhardt
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The Things a Brother Knows

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2010

Book Brief

Dana Reinhardt

The Things a Brother Knows

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

HL650L

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Super Short Summary

In the young adult novel The Things a Brother Knows by Dana Reinhardt, Levi Katznelson narrates his struggle to reconnect with his older brother, Boaz, who returns home from military service deeply changed. As their town celebrates Boaz as a hero, Levi feels conflicted and investigates Boaz's withdrawn behavior, eventually following him on a surprising journey. The book includes themes of post-traumatic stress and familial tension.

Emotional

Melancholic

Inspirational

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.1

3,193 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Things a Brother Knows by Dana Reinhardt has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of a family dealing with a veteran's return home. Reviewers highlight the emotional depth and realistic characters. However, some feel the pacing is slow and the resolution is somewhat predictable. Overall, it’s lauded for its introspective and heartfelt narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Things a Brother Knows?

Readers who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven novels about family dynamics and the struggles of returning war veterans will enjoy The Things a Brother Knows by Dana Reinhardt. Fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky and Looking for Alaska by John Green will find this book equally compelling.

4.1

3,193 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

HL650L

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