100 pages 3 hours read

Karen Hesse

Out of the Dust

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 1997

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Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Karen Hesse's Out of the Dust has been widely praised for its poignant, free verse narration and vivid depiction of the Dust Bowl era. The protagonist’s emotional journey resonates with readers, though some found the verse format challenging. Overall, it’s recognized for its lyrical storytelling and historical insight, despite mixed reactions to its structure.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Out of the Dust?

Fans of lyrical and emotionally resonant historical fiction will enjoy Karen Hesse's Out of the Dust. Ideal for readers captivated by Anne of Green Gables or Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, it offers a poignant glimpse into the struggles of the Great Depression through the eyes of a young girl.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

NP

Book Details

Genre
Historical Fiction
Children's Literature
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Topics
Agriculture
History: U.S.
Period
Great Depression
Themes
Life/Time: Mortality & Death
Society: Class
Natural World: Place