49 pages 1 hour read

Ellen Klages

The Green Glass Sea

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2006

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages is set in New Mexico in 1943 and follows 11-year-old Dewey Kerrigan, a mechanical engineering prodigy, as she moves to Los Alamos to live with her father. Dewey befriends fellow outsider Susan Gordon, and together they navigate life in a secretive town where top scientists are working on the Manhattan Project during WWII. The narrative explores their friendship and experiences against the backdrop of historical developments in nuclear research.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages has been praised for its rich historical context and well-developed characters. Reviewers appreciate its authentic depiction of life during WWII and the nuanced portrayal of young protagonists. However, some critics feel the pacing is slow at times. Overall, it is commended for its insightful exploration of complex themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Green Glass Sea?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, young female protagonists, such as The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, will be captivated by The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages. Ideal for those intrigued by WWII history and coming-of-age stories.

RecommendedReading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

790L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Children's Literature

Realistic Fiction

Period

WWII / World War II

Themes

Relationships: Family

Relationships: Friendship

Emotions/Behavior: Conflict

Topics

Military / War

History: World