74 pages • 2 hours read
Echo
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Book Brief
592
Novel • Fiction
Germany, USA • 1930s-1940s
2015
Scholastic
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan follows an enchanted harmonica that passes through the hands of young musicians Friedrich in 1933 Germany, Mike in 1934 Pennsylvania, Ivy in 1942 California, and eventually Kenneth during World War II, uniting them at Carnegie Hall in 1951, while exploring significant social issues and historical events. The novel addresses themes of Nazism, the Great Depression, World War II, and Japanese internment.
Mysterious
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
47,557 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Pam Muñoz Ryan's Echo has been praised for its intricate storytelling and captivating blend of historical and fantasy elements. Critics commend the seamless interweaving of different narratives and the strong emotional core. Some, however, note a complexity that may challenge younger readers. Overall, the novel’s rich themes and unique structure are highly regarded.
Who Should Read Echo?
A reader who enjoys Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan is likely attracted to richly woven, emotionally resonant stories with historical contexts. Fans of The Book Thief and Wonder will appreciate Ryan's multilayered narrative, diverse characters, and themes of resilience and hope. Suitable for middle grade to young adult readers.
47,557 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Martin Schmidt
Martin Schmidt
Friedrich's father, a former cello player for the Berlin Philharmonic who quits to raise his children. He opposes Nazism, continues to associate with Jewish friends, and faces persecution.
Elisabeth Schmidt
Elisabeth Schmidt
Friedrich's eighteen-year-old sister, a nursing student who initially becomes sympathetic to Nazism but later helps her family.
Gunter Schmidt
Gunter Schmidt
Friedrich's uncle, who teaches him to play the harmonica and ride a bicycle. He strongly opposes Nazism.
Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan won the 2016 Newbery Honor, one of the most prestigious awards for children's literature in the United States.
The novel incorporates a blend of historical fiction and fantasy, weaving a narrative that spans different countries and eras, linked by the power of music.
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Pam Muñoz Ryan worked on Echo for over ten years, meticulously researching historical contexts to ensure accuracy and depth in the storytelling.
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592
Novel • Fiction
Germany, USA • 1930s-1940s
2015
Scholastic
Middle grade
10-14 years
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