Thimble Summer
Thimble Summer
Book Brief
Beta144
Novel • Fiction
Wisconsin • 1930s
1987
YA
8-12 years
810L
Super Short Summary
Thimble Summer by Elizabeth Enright follows a young girl during a transformative summer in a rural Midwestern town. Through a series of adventures, the girl experiences growth, discovery, and the warmth of community life. Enright’s narrative captures the simplicity and charm of rural existence and the timeless themes of friendship and personal development.
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Adventurous
Serene
Playful
Reviews & Readership
8,248 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Elizabeth Enright's Thimble Summer is celebrated for its vivid depiction of 1930s rural life and engaging storytelling. Critics praise Enright's ability to capture youthful optimism, while some note a lack of depth in character development. The narrative's simplicity appeals to younger audiences, though it may not challenge older readers.
Who Should Read Thimble Summer?
A reader who enjoys Thimble Summer by Elizabeth Enright likely appreciates nostalgic, heartwarming tales with strong character development. Fans of rural settings and coming-of-age stories similar to Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder or Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery would be drawn to its charm and simplicity.
8,248 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Thimble Summer was awarded the Newbery Medal in 1939, recognizing it as the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children in the previous year.
Elizabeth Enright, the author of Thimble Summer, was also an accomplished illustrator, having studied at both the Art Students League and Parsons School of Design.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The story was inspired by Enright's own experiences visiting her uncle's farm in Wisconsin, which influenced both the setting and atmosphere of the book.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
144
Novel • Fiction
Wisconsin • 1930s
1987
YA
8-12 years
810L
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!