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Zane and the Hurricane

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014

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Book Brief

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Rodman Philbrick

Zane and the Hurricane

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Orleans, Louisiana • 2000s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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Super Short Summary

In Zane and the Hurricane by Rodman Philbrick, twelve-year-old Zane Dupree and his dog, Bandit, get trapped in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. With the help of an elderly musician, Tru, and a young girl, Malvina, Zane navigates the flood-ravaged city by canoe in search of safety. Through this perilous journey, Zane learns about the importance of family, personal identity, and witnesses the impact of racism and inequality. Sensitive topics include the effects of Hurricane Katrina and issues related to racism and inequality.

Adventurous

Emotional

Heartwarming

Suspenseful

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,130 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rodman Philbrick’s Zane and the Hurricane is praised for its engaging storytelling and compelling depiction of Hurricane Katrina's impact. Critics commend the blend of adventure and historical context, highlighting its emotional resonance. However, some note that the plot occasionally feels predictable. Overall, it’s a heartfelt and educational read suitable for young audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Zane and the Hurricane?

Ideal for middle-grade readers, fans of survival and adventure stories, and those who enjoyed Hatchet by Gary Paulsen and Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis, Zane and the Hurricane by Rodman Philbrick captivates with its gripping tale of a young boy's resilience during Hurricane Katrina.

4.3

4,130 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Zane Dupree

A multiracial, introspective young boy who initially avoids learning about his family heritage but evolves through a journey of self-discovery amidst a natural disaster, accompanied by his loyal dog, Bandit.

A skinny, smart, and outspoken girl from New Orleans with aspirations of being a stand-up comic, known for her sharp wit and strong sense of loyalty to her friends.

An older jazz and blues musician with a kind and honest nature, serving as a father figure and protector to Zane and Malvina during their challenging experiences.

Zane’s elderly great-grandmother in the Lower Ninth Ward, known for her rich singing voice and deep familial pride, who warms Zane with stories of his father.

Zane’s small, protective black and white dog, displaying strong loyalty and intelligence, who forms an integral part of Zane’s adventure.

An intimidating, fearsome-looking local drug lord whose presence poses a threat to the main characters, including his control over community dynamics.

A skilled vet tech and cousin to Tru, who lives in Algiers, she aids Zane and his companions with practical solutions to their dire circumstances.

Devoted and supportive, she worries for Zane's safety during the storm and influences his decisions with wisdom imparted through sayings and stories.

Zane’s late father, who plays a significant yet unseen role in the story as Zane learns about him through the narratives of others.

The head of a security team, depicted as a racist bully whose actions highlight tension and discrimination during the crisis.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Orleans, Louisiana • 2000s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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