BOOK BRIEF

Why the Whales Came

Michael Morpurgo
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Why the Whales Came

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007

Book Brief

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Michael Morpurgo

Why the Whales Came

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

180

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Mystery & Crime Fiction

Children`s Literature
Setting

Bryher, Isles of Scilly • 1910s

Topic
Animals

Education

World History
Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

890L

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Super Short Summary

Why the Whales Came by Michael Morpurgo follows two children, Gracie and Daniel, on a 1914 British island. They befriend an isolated man and discover a link between him and mysterious events involving beached whales. The story explores themes of friendship, misunderstanding, and the power of community amid historical and environmental challenges.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Emotional

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

5,900 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Why the Whales Came by Michael Morpurgo captivates readers with its enchanting narrative and rich, atmospheric setting. The novel's themes of friendship and superstition resonate well, though some critique its slow pacing. Morpurgo's storytelling skillfully blends mystery and historical elements, appealing to younger audiences, despite occasional predictability.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Why the Whales Came?

Readers who enjoy Why the Whales Came by Michael Morpurgo are often captivated by historical adventures with a blend of mystery and nature. Fans of The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett and Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell will appreciate its themes of friendship, courage, and environmental awareness.

4.3

5,900 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

180

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Mystery & Crime Fiction

Children`s Literature
Setting

Bryher, Isles of Scilly • 1910s

Topic
Animals

Education

World History
Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

890L

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