"Wolf Hollow" by Lauren Wolk is a historical fiction novel set in rural Pennsylvania during WWII. The story follows Annabelle, a young girl who faces bullying from a newcomer named Betty. The plot unfolds as Annabelle navigates the challenges of standing up to the bully, while also protecting a reclusive WWI veteran named Toby, who becomes a target of Betty's cruel actions. The writing style is described as spare, with simple language perfectly suited to the subject and setting, creating a mood of aching regret mixed with an electric sense of ominousness.
The book delves into themes of nobility, friendship, bullying, and the impact of lies and deception. Through Annabelle's perspective, readers witness the complexities of rural life during wartime, the strong ties that bind communities, and the intolerance that sometimes arises. The plot is gripping, featuring unexpected twists and moments of suspense that keep readers engaged, making it a poignant and moving story for older audiences.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include bullying, physical violence, trauma of war veterans, and thematic elements of death.
From The Publisher:
A Newbery Honor Book
New York Times Bestseller
"Wolf Hollow has stayed with me long after I closed the book. It has the feel of an instant classic." -Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and New York Times bestselling author of A Long Walk to Water
"This book matters." -Sara Pennypacker, New York Times bestselling author of Pax
Despite growing up in the shadows cast by two world wars, Annabelle has lived a mostly quiet, steady life in her small Pennsylvania town. Until the day new student Betty Glengarry walks into her class. Betty quickly reveals herself to be cruel and manipulative, and though her bullying seems isolated at first, it quickly escalates. Toby, a reclusive World War I veteran, soon becomes the target of Betty's attacks. While others see Toby's strangeness, Annabelle knows only kindness. And as tensions mount in their small community, Annabelle must find the courage to stand as a lone voice for justice.
The brilliantly crafted debut of Newbery Honor- and Scott O'Dell Award-winning author Lauren Wolk (Beyond the Bright Sea, Echo Mountain), Wolf Hollow is a haunting tale of America at a crossroads and a time when one girl's resilience, strength, and compassion help to illuminate the darkest corners of history.
Ratings (4)
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Loved It (1) | |
Liked It (1) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (10):
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Not Interested (2) |
1 comment(s)
Ugh I'm conflicted on what rating to give this. Gonna put it down for 3, but it's more like 3.5.
Writing style was good, easy to fall into. It kept a good pace and the tension didn't let up.
Loved the characters. They were so well-rounded and complex, even Aunt Lily, despicable as she was.
However, I am not a fan of the ending. At all. I had a feeling it was coming but didn't want to think it'd go that way.
I hate to say it, but... I don't get it.
What can you read after
Wolf Hollow?
About the Author:
Lauren Wolk is an award-winning poet, artist, and author. She is the author of Echo Mountain, Newbery Honor-winner Wolf Hollow, and Scott O'Dell Award-winner Beyond the Bright Sea. Lauren was born in Baltimore and has since lived in California, Rhode…
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