Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates
Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Brief
Beta244
Novel • Fiction
Netherlands • 19th century
2005
YA
9-14 years
Super Short Summary
Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates by Mary Mapes Dodge is a 19th-century novel centered on a young Dutch boy who navigates challenges and adventures in pursuit of a skating prize. Through a blend of family, friendship, and determination, the story explores themes of resilience and integrity amid the backdrop of Dutch culture and traditions.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Hopeful
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
16,245 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates by Mary Mapes Dodge captivates with its portrayal of 19th-century Dutch life and its themes of perseverance and integrity. While praised for its vivid cultural depiction and moral lessons, some view its pacing as slow and its character development as dated. Overall, it remains a charming classic for both young and adult readers.
Who Should Read Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates?
A reader who enjoys Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates likely appreciates classic children's literature with historical settings, moral lessons, and adventurous plots. Similar readers may enjoy Little Women by Louisa May Alcott or The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
16,245 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates was originally published in 1865 and helped popularize the sport of ice skating in the United States.
Mary Mapes Dodge crafted the story not only as a children's novel but also as a detailed travelogue, providing readers with vivid insights into Dutch life and culture in the 19th century.
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The book introduced the character of Hans Brinker, who is often mistakenly credited with the legendary tale of the boy who plugs a dike with his finger, although this story is separate from the novel.
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244
Novel • Fiction
Netherlands • 19th century
2005
YA
9-14 years
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