44 pages 1 hour read

Justin Denzel

Boy of the Painted Cave

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1988

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Boy of the Painted Cave by Justin Denzel is a historical fiction novel set in prehistoric France, following Tao, a 14-year-old boy with a disability, who dreams of becoming a cave painter despite the clan's restrictions. Tao befriends a wolf dog, Ram, and defies taboos to pursue his passion for art, eventually gaining the mentorship of Graybeard, the clan's shaman.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Boy of the Painted Cave by Justin Denzel is praised for its immersive depiction of prehistoric life and strong character development. Critics highlight the engaging narrative and educational value. However, some find the pacing slow and wish for more complexity in the plot. Overall, it is considered a compelling read for young audiences interested in historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Boy of the Painted Cave?

Readers who would enjoy Boy of the Painted Cave by Justin Denzel are typically young adults fascinated by prehistoric times, much like fans of Jean M. Auel's The Clan of the Cave Bear. They appreciate adventure, survival, and coming-of-age stories set in ancient settings, focusing on the protagonist's journey and growth.

Recommended

Reading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

800L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Children's Literature

Topics

Religion / Spirituality

Animals

Arts / Culture

Themes

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Natural World: Appearance & Reality

Values/Ideas: Win & Lose