60 pages 2 hours read

Karen Hesse

Letters from Rifka

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2009

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Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Letters from Rifka by Karen Hesse is highly praised for its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, bringing the immigrant experience to life through a young girl's perspective. The epistolary format enriches the narrative, although some readers found it limiting. Overall, the book is celebrated for its historical insight and relatable protagonist, despite a few pacing issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Letters from Rifka?

Readers who enjoyed Number the Stars by Lois Lowry or The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank will appreciate Letters from Rifka by Karen Hesse. This novel appeals to those interested in historical fiction, particularly stories of resilience and hope during times of displacement and war.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

660L

Book Details

Genre
Historical Fiction
Auto/Biographical Fiction
Children's Literature
Topics
Immigration / Refugee
Military / War
History: European
Period
WWI / World War I
WWII / World War II
Themes
Identity: Race
Relationships: Family
Society: Immigration