Who Would Like This Book:
This coming-of-age classic dives deep into sibling rivalry, jealousy, and finding one’s own path, all set against the vivid backdrop of a small island community during WWII. The main character’s struggle to step out from her twin sister’s shadow is raw and relatable, making this a perfect read for anyone who’s ever felt overlooked or yearned to carve out their own place in the world. Fans of nuanced character development, family dynamics, and rich, atmospheric settings will find plenty to love.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers find the main character’s bitterness and self-pity tough to sympathize with, while the slow pace and introspective style might not grab those looking for fast action or lighter fare. The historical setting and daily island life are well-rendered but can feel distant or even tedious for those less interested in character-driven stories. Younger readers or anyone frustrated by unresolved family tension or realistic (rather than fairytale) endings may also struggle to connect.
About:
'Jacob Have I Loved' by Katherine Paterson is a story revolving around twin sisters, Sara Louise and Caroline, growing up on a Chesapeake Bay island in the 1940s. Sara Louise feels overshadowed by her beautiful and talented sister, Caroline, leading to feelings of jealousy and resentment. The book delves into themes of sibling rivalry, self-discovery, and finding one's place in the world, all narrated from Sara Louise's perspective. The plot explores the challenges Sara Louise faces in defining her identity separate from her sister's shadow, with vivid descriptions of island life and the emotional turmoil she experiences.
The writing style in 'Jacob Have I Loved' is praised for its detailed world-building, compelling storytelling, and relatable portrayal of complex family dynamics. The book captures the emotional journey of Sara Louise as she navigates through feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and eventually, self-acceptance. Through Sara Louise's narrative, readers witness her growth, struggles, and ultimate realization of her worth, making it a poignant coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of a unique island community.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Themes of jealousy, emotional neglect, feelings of inferiority, living in a war environment, and complex family dynamics may be triggering for some readers.
Has Romance?
The narrative includes romantic elements, notably with Louise's feelings towards an older man, as well as themes of love and loss.
From The Publisher:
New York Times Outstanding Book
ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults
ALA Booklist Editors' Choice
ALA Notable Children's Book
ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults
Newbery Medal
School Library Journal Best Book
Horn Book Fanfare
Library of Congress Children's Books
ALA Booklist "Best of the '80s"
Katherine Paterson's remarkable Newbery Medal-winning classic about a painful sibling rivalry, and one sister's struggle to make her own way, is an honest and daring portrayal of adolescence and coming of age.
A strong choice for independent reading, both for summer reading and homeschooling, as well as in the classroom, Jacob Have I Loved has been lauded as a cornerstone young adult novel and was ranked among the all-time best children's novels in a survey published by School Library Journal.
"Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated . . ." With her grandmother's taunt, Louise knew that she, like the biblical Esau, was the despised elder twin. Caroline, her selfish younger sister, was the one everyone loved.
Growing up on a tiny Chesapeake Bay island, angry Louise reveals how Caroline has robbed her of everything: her hopes for schooling, her friends, her mother, even her name. While everyone pampers Caroline, Wheeze (her sister's name for her) begins to learn the ways of the watermen and the secrets of the island, especially of old Captain Wallace, who has mysteriously returned after fifty years.
The war unexpectedly gives this independent girl a chance to fulfill her dream to work on the water alongside her father. But the dream does not satisfy the woman she is becoming. Alone and unsure, Louise begins to fight her way to a place for herself outside her sister's shadow. But in order to do that, she must first figure out who she is...
Ratings (8)
Incredible (2) | |
Liked It (4) | |
It Was OK (1) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (24):
Read It (7) | |
Want To Read (10) | |
Not Interested (7) |
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Jacob Have I Loved?
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