The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson offers a heartfelt exploration of a resilient foster child. Reviews praise its emotional depth, complex characters, and candid portrayal of the foster care system. However, some readers find the protagonist, Gilly, challenging to empathize with due to her abrasive nature. Overall, it's a poignant and thought-provoking read.

A reader who would enjoy The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson likely appreciates heartfelt, character-driven stories about young people overcoming adversity. Fans of Anne of Green Gables and Bridge to Terabithia will find similar themes of personal growth, resilience, and the search for belonging.

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson follows 11-year-old Gilly Hopkins, a tough, intelligent foster child, as she navigates life in a new foster home in Thompson Park, Maryland during the 1970s. Despite her resistance, she begins to form bonds with her foster family, including Maime Trotter, a shy boy named William Ernest, and a kind elderly neighbor, Mr. Randolph. Gilly dreams of reuniting with her biological mother, leading her to scheme and make difficult choices, but ultimately, she learns the true meaning of family and belonging.

Challenging / Emotional / Bittersweet / Heartwarming / Contemplative

Katherine Paterson

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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The Great Gilly Hopkins Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

The Great Gilly Hopkins Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

The Great Gilly Hopkins Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

The Great Gilly Hopkins Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-12

The Great Gilly Hopkins Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

The Great Gilly Hopkins Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Great Gilly Hopkins Character Analysis

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Themes

The Great Gilly Hopkins Themes

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The Great Gilly Hopkins Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Great Gilly Hopkins Important Quotes

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The Great Gilly Hopkins

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