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53 pages 1 hour read

Karina Yan Glaser

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser, the quirky Vanderbeeker family attempts to win over their reclusive landlord, Mr. Beiderman, to prevent their eviction from their beloved Harlem brownstone just before Christmas by using their individual talents to show him kindness and become his friends. The book contains references to the death of family members due to a car accident.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Karina Yan Glaser's The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street is celebrated for its charming depiction of family dynamics and community spirit. Critics praise the enchanting, diverse setting and relatable characters. Some find the plot predictable, but overall, the book is deemed heartwarming and engaging for middle-grade readers, emphasizing themes of resilience and belonging.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street?

Readers who enjoyed books like The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall or All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor will find The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street charming and heartwarming. Fans of endearing family dynamics, adventure, and the magic of community will love this story set in a Harlem brownstone.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Harlem, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

810L

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