City of Orphans by Avi captivates readers with its compelling portrayal of 1893 New York City through the eyes of a young newsboy. Critics appreciate the rich historical detail and likable protagonist. However, some found the plot predictable and side characters less developed. Despite these flaws, the novel remains an engaging and educational read for middle-grade audiences.

City of Orphans by Avi is ideal for readers aged 10-14 who enjoy gripping historical fiction set in turn-of-the-century New York. Fans of Brian Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret and Karen Hesse’s Out of the Dust will appreciate its vivid depiction of the struggles faced by young immigrants and its fast-paced, adventurous narrative.

City of Orphans by Avi is set in 1893 New York and follows 13-year-old newsie Maks Geless as he teams up with an orphan girl, Willa, to prove his sister Emma's innocence after she is accused of theft. Together, they seek help from a former detective, navigate the dangers of their urban environment, and cope with their family's struggles, ultimately uniting through resilience and determination.

Mysterious / Gritty / Adventurous / Suspenseful / Emotional

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore City of Orphans 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.

City of Orphans Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

City of Orphans Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-13

City of Orphans Chapters 9-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-20

City of Orphans Chapters 14-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-28

City of Orphans Chapters 21-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-35

City of Orphans Chapters 29-35 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 36-42

City of Orphans Chapters 36-42 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 43-47

City of Orphans Chapters 43-47 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 48-53

City of Orphans Chapters 48-53 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 54-62

City of Orphans Chapters 54-62 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 63-69

City of Orphans Chapters 63-69 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 70-76

City of Orphans Chapters 70-76 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 77-84

City of Orphans Chapters 77-84 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 85-91

City of Orphans Chapters 85-91 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

City of Orphans Character Analysis

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Themes

City of Orphans Themes

Symbols & Motifs

City of Orphans Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

City of Orphans Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

City of Orphans Essay Topics

City of Orphans

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read City of Orphans?

Reading Age

Book Details