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The Underneath

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Kathi Appelt

The Underneath

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Bayou • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

In The Underneath, a lonely, pregnant cat abandoned by her owners seeks solace with a chained dog named Ranger under his shack, owned by a cruel and abusive man named Gar Face. There, they build a family with the cat’s kittens, Puck and Sabine. The novel explores their struggle for survival, the bonds of family, and the dangers posed by Gar Face and the mystical forest around them. The book contains sensitive topics regarding animal cruelty and death.

Mysterious

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

11,653 ratings

72%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kathi Appelt’s The Underneath intertwines a lyrical narrative with rich, atmospheric storytelling, earning acclaim for its emotional depth and vivid imagery. While praised for its poignant reflection on themes of family and survival, some readers found the pacing uneven and the interwoven stories occasionally cumbersome.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Underneath?

Readers who would enjoy The Underneath by Kathi Appelt are likely drawn to heartfelt animal stories, intricate storytelling, and elements of magical realism. Fans of Kate DiCamillo's The Tale of Despereaux or Gillian McClure's The Sea Mice and the Stars will find similar themes of adventure, loyalty, and survival.

4.3

11,653 ratings

72%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Bayou • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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