92 pages 3 hours read

Katherine Applegate

Home of the Brave

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is a free verse novel about Kek, a Sudanese boy who escapes violence in his homeland and travels alone to the U.S., where he adjusts to a new life while hoping to reunite with his mother. As he navigates language barriers and culture shock, he forms meaningful friendships and finds solace caring for an old cow on a nearby farm.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is praised for its poignant, accessible narrative and compelling protagonist. Reviewers laud its unique verse style and emotional depth, making it ideal for young readers. Some critique the pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, it is a moving tale of resilience and adaptation in a new land.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Home of the Brave?

A reader who would enjoy Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is often drawn to poignant, character-driven narratives that explore themes of immigration, resilience, and adaptation. Similar in appeal to Sharon Creech's Walk Two Moons and Linda Sue Park's A Long Walk to Water, this novel resonates with middle-grade readers who appreciate deep emotional journeys.

RecommendedReading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

NP

Book Details

Themes

Relationships: Family

Relationships: Friendship

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature

Education

Topics

Education

Arts / Culture