BOOK BRIEF

The Arm of the Starfish

Madeleine L'Engle
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The Arm of the Starfish

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1979

Book Brief

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Madeleine L'Engle

The Arm of the Starfish

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1979
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Portugal • 1960s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-15 years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

In The Arm of the Starfish by Madeleine L'Engle, a young biology student is thrust into an international intrigue involving marine biology and espionage. Person-first characters navigate themes of ethics, trust, and scientific responsibility. The narrative unfolds within a rich tapestry of mystery and moral dilemmas concerning scientific discoveries and their impact on humanity.

Adventurous

Mysterious

Inspirational

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.1

10,471 ratings

66%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Arm of the Starfish by Madeleine L'Engle is praised for its engaging narrative and thought-provoking themes, blending science fiction with ethical dilemmas. Some readers appreciate the book's fast-paced adventure and depth in character development. However, others find the plot occasionally convoluted and the pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a compelling read for L'Engle fans.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Arm of the Starfish?

A reader who enjoys The Arm of the Starfish by Madeleine L'Engle likely appreciates young adult science fiction intertwined with mystery and moral dilemmas. Fans of L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time and Lois Lowry's The Giver would find the themes of ethical responsibility and adventurous plot engaging.

4.1

10,471 ratings

66%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

The Arm of the Starfish was published in 1965 and is part of Madeleine L'Engle's series of novels about the O'Keefe family.

The novel explores themes of scientific ethics and moral responsibility, which reflect L'Engle's interest in integrating scientific concepts with narrative fiction.

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The character of Adam Eddington, introduced in this book, features prominently in L'Engle's later works, showcasing her penchant for creating interlinked stories and characters.

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Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Portugal • 1960s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-15 years

Lexile Level

860L

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