Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk

Wolf Hollow

by Lauren Wolk

A Newbery Honor Book
New York Times Bestseller

Wolf Hollow has stayed with me long after I closed the book. It has the feel of an instant classic." —Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and New York Times bestselling author of A Long Walk to Water

“This book matters.” —Sara Pennypacker, New York Times bestselling author of Pax

Despite growing up in the shadows cast by two world wars, Annabelle has lived a mostly quiet, steady life in her small Pennsylvania town. Until the day new student Betty Glengarry walks into her class. Betty quickly reveals herself to be cruel and manipulative, and though her bullying seems isolated at first, it quickly escalates. Toby, a reclusive World War I veteran, soon becomes the target of Betty’s attacks. While others see Toby’s strangeness, Annabelle knows only kindness. And as tensions mount in their small community, Annabelle must find the courage to stand as a lone voice for justice.

The brilliantly crafted debut of Newbery Honor– and Scott O'Dell Award–winning author Lauren Wolk (Beyond the Bright Sea, Echo Mountain)Wolf Hollow is a haunting tale of America at a crossroads and a time when one girl’s resilience, strength, and compassion help to illuminate the darkest corners of history. 



Reviewed by bamxo on

5 of 5 stars

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I...
I am broken.
This book was so beautiful and it hurt me. Sat here with a tear streaked face. Knowing that it hurt so good, that I'm still alive inside.

I've never been a fan of anything even remotely historical/history related, I just get bored and give up, but this story was so special that I read it silently and peacefully, wrapped up in the characters lives.

I did not expect to have so many emotions and feelings and such inner turmoil over the fate of the characters.

The tension and build up towards the finale was so horribly gripping, I had an idea what was going to happen, then something else would, completely throwing me off my game. I was not ready for the final pages of this book. Nope.

The world that has been built here, is so incredibly realistic, so believable, it was a real big hurt thinking something like this may very well have happened.

The MC in this story is the youngest character I have read about in a long time, but it was perfect. Any other age perspective would have spoiled the whole thing. The author really did a great job capturing that age of innocence.

The morals of this book for me, are firstly you can't escape your demons, your past or those who wish you ill will if you close yourself off from those who wish to help you. Be brave. Let someone in.

The second one here, is that you should always tell the truth, it doesn't matter if it scares you, or you are worried you will get into trouble. It could very well save a life.

Lastly, never judge a book by its cover.

Just because you see a monster, doesn't make it so.
When you make presumptions about a person, or spread gossip based on your false perception it creates a negative stigma and can cause harm.
Always be kind, honest and welcoming to others.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 15 June, 2024: Finished reading
  • 15 June, 2024: Reviewed