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Cover of The Patchwork People

The Patchwork People

Louise Lawrence (1994)

SubgenreChildren's Fantasy
Age groupMiddle Grade 8-12
Content ratingPG
Pages (Quick Read (<250))
Setting
CSM age10
Goodreads3.68
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Content levels

ViolenceMild
Sexual contentNone
LanguageMild

Trigger warnings

Class StruggleDepression

Positive tags

Found FamilyComing of AgeFriendshipHopeful Ending

Heroine archetypes

Rich Heroine

Protagonist archetypes

Ensemble CastComing-of-Age Protagonist

Tropes

Fish out of WaterComing of AgeFound FamilyNon-Western Setting

Themes

Class StruggleFriendship Across DividesEconomic HardshipMaterial Wealth vs Emotional PovertyCommunitySocial JusticeEmpathy

Synopsis

In a dismal Wales of the future, with few jobs and fewer resources, a group of destitute, jobless young people becomes involved with a rich girl whose life is impoverished in spite of her material comforts.

Is The Patchwork People appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 10 and up.

A thoughtful middle grade story exploring class divisions and friendship in a bleak near-future Wales. Addresses economic hardship and social inequality with sensitivity appropriate for older elementary readers.

What to know going in

This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include class struggle and depression.

Who'll love this

Kids will connect with characters from different worlds learning to understand each other despite economic differences.

Tags

Social CommentaryDystopian ElementsContemporary Fantasy