56 pages • 1 hour read
Sharon CreechThe Great Unexpected
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Great Unexpected by Sharon Creech centers on two orphaned best friends, Naomi Deane and Lizzie Scatterding, living in a small American town. Their lives change dramatically when a boy named Finn falls from a tree and speaks to them, leading to uncovering secrets connected to an Irish woman named Sybil. Through a series of unexpected events, the girls explore themes of family, friendship, and the interconnectedness of people across time and place. The book includes instances of child death and familial loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Great Unexpected by Sharon Creech is lauded for its whimsical storytelling and engaging prose, offering readers a heartfelt tale of friendship and mystery. Critics highlight the vivid character development and charming narrative but note that the pacing can be uneven at times. Overall, it’s a delightful read for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read The Great Unexpected?
A reader who enjoys The Great Unexpected by Sharon Creech likely loves whimsical, heartfelt stories with a touch of mystery. Ideal for fans of Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn-Dixie and Rebecca Stead's When You Reach Me, this novel appeals to middle-grade readers who appreciate quirky characters and magical realism within a contemporary setting.
RecommendedReading Age
8-12yearsLexile Level
720LBook Details
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