Katherine Applegate's Willodeen captivates readers with its environmental themes and charming characters. It blends fantasy and reality seamlessly, appealing to both children and adults. However, some critics note predictable plot twists. The book's strong message of conservation and empathy resonates deeply, though the pacing may feel slow to some.

Willodeen by Katherine Applegate will captivate middle-grade readers who enjoy heartfelt stories blending fantasy and environmental themes. Fans of The One and Only Ivan or The Wild Robot will appreciate the strong protagonist and rich, imaginative world. Ideal for readers aged 8-12 who cherish tales of nature and friendship.

Willodeen by Katherine Applegate is a middle-grade fantasy novel set in the fictional town of Perchance, where 11-year-old Willodeen, along with her friend Connor and her two caretakers, strives to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of hummingbears while caring for a baby screecher—a creature the village despises for its terrible smell.

Inspirational / Contemplative / Hopeful / Emotional / Fantastical

**Willodeen**  
A young girl with social anxiety who finds solace in the woods and grapples with past trauma. She gradually learns to connect with others and navigate village life.

**Connor Burke**  
An optimistic and friendly boy from Willodeen's village, known for his love of art and large smile. He helps Willodeen feel more comfortable around people and supports her growth.

**Quinby**  
A screecher creature with distinctive tusks and tail spikes, symbolizing life's complexities. Quinby plays a crucial role in Willodeen's personal development and understanding of responsibility.

**Duuzuu**  
Willodeen's pet hummingbear who can no longer fly but finds happiness despite being different. Duuzuu lives with Willodeen, representing resilience and adaptation.

**Mae and Birdie**  
Two eccentric and wise older women who adopt Willodeen after she is orphaned. They allow her to make her own choices, becoming her unexpected family.

**Connor’s Father**  
A member of the village council who initially seems stern but supports his son's artistic interests. He represents the importance of clear communication and open-mindedness toward new ideas.

**Willodeen’s Family**  
They appear in Willodeen's memories and have a lasting impact on her character development. Their presence highlights how past experiences influence Willodeen’s journey.

Study Guide

Book Brief

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Book Brief Willodeen

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Overview

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Willodeen Summary and Study Guide

Background

Willodeen Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Willodeen Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-8

Willodeen Part 1, Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-11

Willodeen Part 1, Chapters 9-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 12-16

Willodeen Part 2, Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 17-19

Willodeen Part 2, Chapters 17-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 20-23

Willodeen Part 3, Chapters 20-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 24-27

Willodeen Part 3, Chapters 24-27 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 28-32

Willodeen Part 4, Chapters 28-32 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 33-36

Willodeen Part 4, Chapters 33-36 Summary & Analysis

Parts 4-5, Chapters 37-41

Willodeen Parts 4-5, Chapters 37-41 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Willodeen Character Analysis

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Themes

Willodeen Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Willodeen Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Willodeen Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Willodeen Essay Topics

Katherine Applegate

Middle grade

Novel

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Willodeen

Book Brief

Willodeen

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

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