A Northern Light
408
Novel • Fiction
Adirondacks, New York • 1900s
2003
YA
12-18 years
700L
A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly follows Mattie Gokey, a young girl living in 1906 Herkimer County, New York, as she balances familial duties on her family farm with aspirations of attending college, spurred by her teacher's encouragement. She contends with financial difficulties, societal expectations, and the discovery of Grace Brown's letters, ultimately choosing to pursue her dreams amid personal and societal challenges. This book includes depictions of racism, arson, and intimate partner betrayal.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Melancholic
Inspirational
Bittersweet
46,259 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jennifer Donnelly's A Northern Light has been well-received for its rich historical detail and strong, complex protagonist. Readers praised the intricate blend of fact and fiction, and the coming-of-age themes. However, some found the pacing uneven and the dual timelines occasionally confusing. Overall, it is deemed a compelling read with significant educational value.
Readers who enjoy A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly are typically fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories. They would appreciate the blend of real events with personal growth similar to Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse and Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein. Ideal for those drawn to strong female protagonists navigating significant life challenges.
46,259 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A Northern Light is inspired by the real-life murder case of Grace Brown in 1906, which also inspired Theodore Dreiser's novel An American Tragedy.
Jennifer Donnelly drew from her personal experience with the Adirondacks to authentically capture the novel's 1906 setting in upstate New York.
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The novel won the 2003 Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Young Adult Literature, highlighting its impact and acclaim in the literary community.
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408
Novel • Fiction
Adirondacks, New York • 1900s
2003
YA
12-18 years
700L
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