65 pages • 2 hours read
320
Novel • Fiction
Bayou • Contemporary
2008
Middle grade
8-12 years
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
11,653 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
11,653 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
Bayou • Contemporary
2008
Middle grade
8-12 years
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