58 pages • 1 hour read
Year of Wonders
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Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
Derbyshire, England • 1660s
2001
Adult
18+ years
1080L
Super Short Summary
Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks follows 18-year-old Anna Frith, a widow in the English village of Eyam during the 1666 bubonic plague. The town's rector, Michael Mompellion, leads a voluntary quarantine to prevent the spread, and Anna serves her community alongside Mompellion and his wife, Elinor. As the plague decimates the village, Anna confronts profound questions about faith, humanity, and her own resilience. This book contains child death, extreme violence towards women, detailed descriptions of traumatic births, and painful death.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
177,383 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Geraldine Brooks' Year of Wonders offers a gripping and emotional portrayal of a village struck by the plague. Critics praise Brooks' evocative prose and rich historical detail. Some find the plot's melodramatic moments detract from realism, but the compelling characters and vivid setting resonate powerfully. A blend of historical depth and human resilience.
Who Should Read Year of Wonders?
Readers captivated by historical fiction with strong female protagonists and tales of resilience will appreciate Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks. Fans of Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale or Margaret Atwood's Alias Grace will find this poignant story set during the 1666 plague in England equally engaging.
177,383 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Michael Mompellion
Michael Mompellion
The Anglican rector of Eyam, who assumes a leadership role during the plague. He is initially seen as compassionate and committed to guiding his congregation through the crisis.
Mem Gowdie
Mem Gowdie
A healer and midwife in Eyam, well-versed in herbal medicine. She faces suspicion and hostility from the villagers due to her unorthodox medical practices.
Elinor Mompellion
Elinor Mompellion
The well-educated spouse of Michael Mompellion known for her kindness and intellect. She mentors Anna and shares her knowledge of plants and healing.
Aphra Bont
Aphra Bont
Anna’s stepmother, known for her superstitious beliefs and exploitation of villagers' fears during the plague. Her behavior deteriorates significantly during the epidemic.
304
Novel • Fiction
Derbyshire, England • 1660s
2001
Adult
18+ years
1080L
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