58 pages • 1 hour read
Kenneth OppelHalf Brother
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009A 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
Super Short Summary
In Half Brother by Kenneth Oppel, the Tomlin family adopts a baby chimpanzee named Zan as part of a research project to explore whether chimpanzees can learn and use human language. The story follows the family's adjustments, the challenges of the experiment, and the growing bond between Ben and Zan, ultimately delving into themes of family, belonging, animal rights, and communication. The narrative contains descriptions of animal abuse, violence, and injury.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Half Brother by Kenneth Oppel is praised for its compelling and emotional narrative, capturing the bond between a boy and a chimpanzee. Critics appreciate the ethical questions it raises and its realistic portrayal of scientific experiments. Some find the pacing slow and characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's esteemed for its thought-provoking themes and heartfelt storyline.
Who Should Read Half Brother?
Readers who enjoy Half Brother by Kenneth Oppel are typically middle-grade to young adult enthusiasts who appreciate thought-provoking stories featuring animal-human relationships. Fans of The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate and Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card would find this novel engaging due to its emotional depth and ethical dilemmas.