Gillian McDunn's Caterpillar Summer is widely praised for its heartfelt storytelling, strong character development, and relatable family dynamics. Critics appreciate the authentic portrayal of sibling relationships and mental health issues. However, some note a predictable plot and pacing issues. Overall, it is recommended for middle-grade readers.

A reader who would enjoy Caterpillar Summer by Gillian McDunn is likely someone who appreciates heartfelt middle-grade novels about family, personal growth, and sibling dynamics. Fans of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Wonder by R.J. Palacio would find similar themes of resilience and empathy.

In Caterpillar Summer by Gillian McDunn, 11-year-old Cat Gladwin navigates family dynamics while caring for her younger brother with special needs during a three-week stay with their estranged grandparents. The experience helps Cat repair family rifts, find support for her brother, and assert her own identity amidst personal growth and new friendships.

- Caterpillar Summer was a debut novel by Gillian McDunn, who drew inspiration from her own relationship with her younger brother for the sibling bond depicted in the story.

- The book was selected as a Junior Library Guild selection and received positive reviews for its sensitive portrayal of family dynamics and disability.

- Gillian McDunn has a background in writing websites for kids and teachers, which helped her craft engaging content for a younger audience in her first novel.

**Cat Gladwell**  
An 11-year-old protagonist who is responsible and self-sacrificing, caring for her younger brother, Chicken, while navigating her desire for independence and autonomy.

**Henry “Chicken” Gladwell**  
Cat's younger brother with an unspecified disability, who requires a well-organized environment to thrive and is passionate about topics like sharks.

**Mom (Amanda)**  
A devoted author and illustrator of children's books, balancing her career with single-parent responsibilities while being a loving but busy mother to Cat and Chicken.

**Macon**  
Cat and Chicken’s grandfather, who is initially reserved but gradually becomes more open and caring, sharing his interests with them during their stay on the island.

**John Harvey**  
A 12-year-old island resident who initially acts as a bully towards Cat and Chicken but occasionally demonstrates kindness and complexity in his interactions with them.

Gillian McDunn

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Caterpillar Summer and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Caterpillar Summer Summary and Study Guide

Background

Caterpillar Summer Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-9

Caterpillar Summer Chapters 1-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-19

Caterpillar Summer Chapters 10-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-28

Caterpillar Summer Chapters 20-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-34

Caterpillar Summer Chapters 29-34 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Caterpillar Summer Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Caterpillar Summer Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Caterpillar Summer Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Caterpillar Summer Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Caterpillar Summer Essay Topics

Caterpillar Summer

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Caterpillar Summer?

Reading Age

Book Details