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We Are Called to Rise

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Book Brief

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Laura McBride

We Are Called to Rise

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Las Vegas, Nevada • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Published in 2014, Laura McBride’s first novel, We Are Called to Rise, narrates the story of four Las Vegas residents with different backgrounds whose lives become interconnected after a series of unexpected events leads to a family tragedy. Though they experience seemingly unrelated situations, they eventually play a role in each other’s lives to help heal the trauma created by loss, grief, and family abuse.

Emotional

Heartwarming

Contemplative

Inspirational

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.1

16,682 ratings

74%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Laura McBride's We Are Called to Rise captures hearts with its emotionally charged narrative and multifaceted characters. Reviewers praised its deep humanity and evocative prose. However, some found the pacing uneven and certain plot points predictable. Overall, it's lauded for its powerful storytelling and exploration of resilience amidst adversity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read We Are Called to Rise?

A reader who would enjoy We Are Called to Rise by Laura McBride appreciates character-driven narratives that intertwine multiple perspectives to create a poignant and uplifting story. Fans of The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd and The Help by Kathryn Stockett will find themselves captivated by this novel's exploration of resilience and human connection.

4.1

16,682 ratings

74%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Bashkim

An eight-year-old boy living with his Albanian immigrant family in an American suburb, navigating the challenges of an immigrant upbringing and personal responsibility.

A mid-fifties mother who faces family upheaval when she discovers her husband's infidelity and must deal with the repercussions of her son's struggles.

A recovering soldier dealing with PTSD, who becomes pen pals with Bashkim and learns to cope with his past experiences with the help of a supportive doctor.

A volunteer advocate for homeless youth who dedicates herself to improving the lives of children in need, demonstrating selflessness and commitment to social causes.

Bashkim's Albanian immigrant parents, whose family dynamics highlight cultural contrasts and personal challenges within their household.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Las Vegas, Nevada • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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