Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk follows 11-year-old Annabelle, living in rural Pennsylvania during World War II, whose peaceful life is disrupted by a new, vicious bully, Betty. Betty falsely accuses reclusive war veteran Toby of a serious crime. Annabelle's quest for justice reveals harsh truths about her community as she fights to clear Toby's name amidst mounting tensions. 

The book includes instances of bullying, physical violence, and wartime trauma.

Lauren Wolk's Wolf Hollow is praised for its vivid characters and lyrical prose, effectively capturing the struggles and growth of a young girl in a post-WWII rural setting. While some readers find the pacing slow, the emotional depth and moral complexity are highlighted as significant strengths. Overall, it’s a compelling and thought-provoking read suited for middle-grade and adult audiences alike.

Readers who would enjoy Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk are typically middle-grade to young adult readers who appreciate historical fiction with deep emotional resonance. Fans of To Kill a Mockingbird and Wonder will find similar themes of courage, empathy, and social justice. The narrative's coming-of-age elements appeal to those who relish morally complex and poignant stories.

Melancholic / Mysterious / Bittersweet / Suspenseful / Contemplative

- Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk was a Newbery Honor book in 2017, recognizing it as a distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
- The story of Wolf Hollow is inspired by author Lauren Wolk's own life experiences and her mother's childhood stories about growing up in rural Pennsylvania.

**Annabelle McBride**  
Annabelle is an 11-year-old girl from a farming family, known for her independence and maturity as she navigates challenges that test her sense of justice and accountability.

**Tobias Jordan (Toby)**  
A former soldier turned wanderer, Toby is an eccentric but gentle man struggling with past trauma, who becomes a misunderstood figure in the community.

**Betty Glengarry**  
Betty is a deceptively sweet-looking girl with a cruel streak, whose actions disrupt the lives of those around her, causing conflict and tension.

**Ruth**  
Ruth is Annabelle's shy and delicate school friend, whose unfortunate accident shifts the dynamics of the story.

**John McBride**  
John, Annabelle's father, is a respected farmer who values character over prejudice and supports Annabelle's involvement in community matters.

**Sarah McBride**  
Annabelle’s mother, Sarah, is a hardworking woman who balances numerous responsibilities while providing wisdom and guidance to her family.

**Aunt Lily**  
Aunt Lily is a devout spinster with strong opinions and insecurities, who finds her judgments challenged throughout the narrative.

**Annabelle’s Grandfather**  
He is a pragmatic and truthful elder who shares the harsh realities of the world with Annabelle, shaping her understanding of community and history.

**Mrs. Taylor**  
Mrs. Taylor is the pragmatic schoolteacher struggling with limited resources and varied student interest in education amid the community’s challenges.

**Andy Woodberry**  
Andy is a schoolboy and Betty's accomplice, known for his bullying behavior but also as someone who shows occasional sensitivity.

**Mr. Ansel**  
Mr. Ansel is a kind German immigrant who faces suspicion and discrimination in the community during wartime.

**Annie Gribble**  
Annie Gribble, the gossipy telephone operator, plays a crucial role in spreading important information within the community.

Lauren Wolk

Middle grade

Novel

Wolf Hollow

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

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Overview

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Wolf Hollow Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 9

Wolf Hollow Prologue-Chapter 9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-18

Wolf Hollow Chapters 10-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-27

Wolf Hollow Chapters 19-27 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Wolf Hollow Character Analysis

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Themes

Wolf Hollow Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Wolf Hollow Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Wolf Hollow Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Wolf Hollow Essay Topics

Wolf Hollow Teaching Unit

Introduction

Wolf Hollow Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Wolf Hollow Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Wolf Hollow Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Wolf Hollow Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Wolf Hollow Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Wolf Hollow Activities

Essay Questions

Wolf Hollow Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Wolf Hollow Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Wolf Hollow Exam Answer Key

Wolf Hollow

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Wolf Hollow?

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