71 pages 2 hours read

Ann M. Martin

A Corner of the Universe

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Ann M. Martin's middle-grade novel, A Corner of the Universe, Hattie Owen's life changes the summer she turns 12 and meets Adam, her uncle with mental health issues who had been kept a secret. Shy Hattie bonds with Adam and learns the importance of friendship, acceptance, and family communication while navigating mature situations. It includes themes of mental illness and suicide.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

A Corner of the Universe by Ann M. Martin has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of mental illness and the impact on family dynamics. Readers find protagonist Hattie engaging and authentic, resonating with many. Some, however, feel the narrative is slow-paced and wish for a deeper exploration of secondary characters. Overall, it's a touching and thoughtful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Corner of the Universe?

A reader who would enjoy A Corner of the Universe by Ann M. Martin is typically an adolescent or young adult who appreciates heartfelt coming-of-age stories. Fans of Sharon Creech’s Walk Two Moons or Judy Blume’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret will find Martin’s exploration of family dynamics, mental illness, and self-discovery deeply engaging.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

750L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Historical Fiction

Topics

Grief / Death

Depression / Suicide

Health / Medicine

Themes

Relationships: Family

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Identity: Disability