The Day of the Pelican
The Day of the Pelican
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2009
Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Kosovo • 1990s
2009
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
In Katherine Paterson's The Day of the Pelican, a young Albanian girl, Meli, and her family endure the Kosovo conflict. As refugees, they navigate challenges of displacement and cultural adaptation while pursuing safety and hope in a new land. The story highlights resilience, cultural identity, and the power of family bonds amidst turmoil.
Challenging
Contemplative
Emotional
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
1,157 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Katherine Paterson's The Day of the Pelican is praised for its poignant portrayal of a refugee family's struggles and resilience. Readers appreciate its ability to foster empathy and understanding. However, some feel the narrative could be more dynamic. Overall, it's seen as a moving and educational read for both young and adult audiences.
Who Should Read The Day of the Pelican?
Readers who enjoyed The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis or A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park will be captivated by The Day of the Pelican. Ideal for young adults interested in resilience and refugee stories, it explores themes of family, survival, and hope amidst adversity.
1,157 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
160
Novel • Fiction
Kosovo • 1990s
2009
Middle grade
10-14 years
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