Katherine Applegate's Willodeen captivates readers with its environmental themes and charming characters. It blends fantasy and reality seamlessly, appealing to both children and adults. However, some critics note predictable plot twists. The book's strong message of conservation and empathy resonates deeply, though the pacing may feel slow to some.

Willodeen by Katherine Applegate will captivate middle-grade readers who enjoy heartfelt stories blending fantasy and environmental themes. Fans of The One and Only Ivan or The Wild Robot will appreciate the strong protagonist and rich, imaginative world. Ideal for readers aged 8-12 who cherish tales of nature and friendship.

Willodeen by Katherine Applegate is a middle-grade fantasy novel set in the fictional town of Perchance, where 11-year-old Willodeen, along with her friend Connor and her two caretakers, strives to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of hummingbears while caring for a baby screecher—a creature the village despises for its terrible smell.

Inspirational / Contemplative / Hopeful / Emotional / Fantastical

Katherine Applegate

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Willodeen 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.

Willodeen Summary and Study Guide

Background

Willodeen Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Willodeen Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-8

Willodeen Part 1, Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-11

Willodeen Part 1, Chapters 9-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 12-16

Willodeen Part 2, Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 17-19

Willodeen Part 2, Chapters 17-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 20-23

Willodeen Part 3, Chapters 20-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 24-27

Willodeen Part 3, Chapters 24-27 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 28-32

Willodeen Part 4, Chapters 28-32 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 33-36

Willodeen Part 4, Chapters 33-36 Summary & Analysis

Parts 4-5, Chapters 37-41

Willodeen Parts 4-5, Chapters 37-41 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Willodeen Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Willodeen Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Willodeen Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Willodeen Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Willodeen Essay Topics

Willodeen

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Willodeen?

Reading Age

Book Details