Pictures of Hollis Woods follows 11-year-old Hollis, a foster child and talented artist, as she finds herself taken in by two families: the loving Regans and the eccentric Josie. Through dual timelines, the novel reveals Hollis' past with the Regans and her present with Josie, gradually uncovering her struggles, growth, and the eventual understanding of love and belonging in her journey to find a true home.

Patricia Reilly Giff's Pictures of Hollis Woods has garnered praise for its poignant storytelling and well-drawn characters. Readers appreciate the emotional depth and authentic portrayal of foster care. Criticisms focus on a predictable plot and occasional slow pacing. Overall, its heartfelt narrative and strong character development make it a compelling read.

Readers who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories like Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis will be captivated by Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff. This book's exploration of themes like family and belonging will resonate with fans of heartfelt, middle-grade fiction.

Emotional / Heartwarming / Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Contemplative

- Pictures Of Hollis Woods was a recipient of the Newbery Honor in 2003, highlighting its contribution to children's literature.
- Patricia Reilly Giff, the author of Pictures Of Hollis Woods, was inspired to write this novel by her own experiences as a teacher and her interest in fostering empathy through storytelling.
- The book explores themes of family and identity, which are common in Giff's works, reflecting her belief in the power of understanding oneself and others.

**Hollis Woods**  
An 11-year-old foster child with disorderly hair and freckles, known for her sensitive nature and creative talent, particularly in drawing. She struggles with feelings of rejection and often responds by acting out or running away.

**Josie Cahill**  
An elderly, movie-star-beautiful retired art teacher with flowing dresses and an orange cat named Henry. She lives in the woods and is known for being an excellent foster parent to children considered problematic.

**Steven Regan**  
A 12-year-old with caramel eyes and mismatched socks, who is Hollis's foster brother. An affectionate and disorganized boy, he quickly earns Hollis's trust and affection.

**The Old Man (John Regan)**  
Steven's father and Hollis's foster father, characterized by his cinnamon-toast-colored eyes, gray-black beard, and a structured sense as an architect. He provides a stable and unconditional parental love for Hollis.

**Izzy Regan**  
Steven's mother and Hollis's foster mother, known for her tall stature and blond hair. She is a loving person who fulfills her family with food like apple pancakes and candy, symbolizing her nurturing nature.

**Beatrice Gilcrest**  
Josie’s cousin and best friend who runs a local movie theater and shares profound wisdom about art with Hollis. Her trust in Hollis empowers the young girl while also reflecting a less traditional guardian role.

Patricia Reilly Giff

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Before You Read

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Pictures Of Hollis Woods Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

First Picture-Second Picture

Pictures Of Hollis Woods First Picture-Second Picture Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2-Fourth Picture

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Chapter 2-Fourth Picture Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Sixth Picture-Seventh Picture

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Sixth Picture-Seventh Picture Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-10

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Ninth Picture-Chapter 12

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Ninth Picture-Chapter 12 Summary & Analysis

Eleventh Picture-Twelfth Picture

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Eleventh Picture-Twelfth Picture Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-15

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Chapters 14-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 16-Fourteenth Picture

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Chapter 16-Fourteenth Picture Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Character Analysis

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Themes

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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Introduction

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Pictures Of Hollis Woods Before Reading

During Reading

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After Reading

Pictures Of Hollis Woods After Reading

Pictures Of Hollis Woods

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