65 pages 2 hours read

Patricia MacLachlan

Sarah, Plain and Tall

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1985

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Patricia MacLachlan's Sarah, Plain and Tall, set in the late 19th century on the American prairie, Anna and Caleb Whiting live with their father, Jacob, and dogs, Nick and Lottie, after their mother's death. Jacob places an ad for a new wife and receives a response from Sarah Wheaton, who moves from Maine to join the family. As Sarah adapts to life on the prairie, she and the family gradually bond and grow to love one another.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan is praised for its heartfelt storytelling and evocative descriptions. Readers appreciate its simple yet profound exploration of family, belonging, and resilience. Some critique its brevity and wish for deeper character development. Overall, it is a touching, memorable read particularly suited for young audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sarah, Plain and Tall?

Readers who enjoy heartwarming historical fiction will be captivated by Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan. Ideal for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series and Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn-Dixie, this book appeals to those who appreciate tales of family, resilience, and gentle, evocative storytelling.

RecommendedReading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

650L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Children's Literature

Education

Themes

Relationships: Family

Topics

Education

History: World