‘News of the World’ is a captivating historical fiction novel written by Paulette Jiles. Set in the late 1800s, the story takes us on a journey through the rugged landscapes and tumultuous times of post-Civil War Texas.
This book summary will provide you with a detailed overview of the plot, key characters, memorable quotes, and interesting facts about ‘News of the World.’
Book Summary of ‘News of the World’
‘News of the World’ follows the story of Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, a war veteran turned itinerant news reader.
As he travels from town to town, Kidd reads newspapers aloud to the locals, keeping them informed about the world beyond their reach. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he is tasked with returning a young girl, Johanna, to her surviving relatives.
Johanna, a Kiowa Indian who was kidnapped and raised by the tribe, struggles to adapt to her new life. Despite the language barrier and cultural differences, Kidd forms a connection with Johanna as they embark on a perilous journey across the dangerous Texas frontier.
Along the way, they face various challenges and encounter both kindness and cruelty.
Movie Summary of ‘News of the World’ and Film Locations
The book’s popularity led to its adaptation into a film, directed by Paul Greengrass. The movie, starring Tom Hanks as Captain Kidd and Helena Zengel as Johanna, beautifully captures the essence of the story. It showcases the breathtaking landscapes and rugged beauty of the American West.
The film primarily takes place in Texas, and the stunning locations used for filming include Big Bend National Park, Palo Duro Canyon, and various small towns in the state. These locations bring the story to life, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the world of ‘News of the World.’
Key Characters in ‘News of the World’
‘News of the World’ introduces readers to a range of memorable characters. Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd is a complex protagonist, haunted by his past but driven by a sense of duty and compassion. Johanna, the young girl he must return to her family, is a resilient and courageous soul who must navigate the challenges of a world she no longer remembers.
Other notable characters include Britt Johnson, a freed slave who joins Kidd and Johanna on their journey, and Almay, a young woman who offers them temporary refuge. Each character adds depth and complexity to the story, making ‘News of the World’ a truly immersive reading experience.
Memorable Quotes from ‘News of the World’
Paulette Jiles’ writing is filled with poignant and thought-provoking quotes that resonate with readers. Here are a few memorable lines from ‘News of the World’:
- “Maybe life is just carrying news. Surviving to carry the news. Maybe we have just one message, and it is delivered to us when we are born and we are never sure what it says; it may have nothing to do with us personally but it must be carried by hand through a life, all the way, and at the end handed over, sealed.”
- “If a man does not have good thoughts, then he has nothing.”
- “But in her heart she knew that the far side of the river was not the end of the journey but only the beginning of more.”
These quotes highlight the powerful themes of resilience, human connection, and the importance of carrying stories.
Soundtrack by James Newton Howard in ‘News of the World’
The enchanting music of ‘News of the World’ was composed by James Newton Howard. The soundtrack perfectly complements the emotional depth and intensity of the story. Howard’s compositions evoke the vastness of the Texas landscape, the sense of adventure, and the tender moments between Captain Kidd and Johanna.
The score of ‘News of the World’ has received critical acclaim, with tracks like “The Road to Dallas” and “Leaving Home, Coming Home” standing out as beautiful and evocative pieces. The soundtrack adds another layer of immersion to the book and film, enhancing the overall experience for readers and viewers alike.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts about ‘News of the World’
‘News of the World’ is filled with intriguing curiosities and interesting facts that make the story even more captivating. Did you know that the character of Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd is based on a real historical figure? Captain Kidd was inspired by the actual news readers who traveled from town to town in the 1800s, bringing the world to isolated communities.
Another fascinating aspect of the novel is the exploration of the clash between different cultures and the impact of historical events on individual lives. Paulette Jiles skillfully weaves together historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, creating a narrative that both educates and entertains.
Dressing like Captain Kidd and Johanna in ‘News of the World’
If you’re a fan of ‘News of the World’ and want to embrace the spirit of the characters, dressing like Captain Kidd and Johanna can be a fun way to connect with the story.
Captain Kidd’s attire typically consists of a rugged hat, a vest, a long coat, and sturdy boots, reflecting his adventurous spirit. Johanna’s wardrobe, on the other hand, draws inspiration from traditional Native American clothing, featuring earthy colors and intricate patterns.
By adopting their style, you can pay homage to these beloved characters and show your appreciation for the world of ‘News of the World.’
Paulette Jiles: A Brief Biography and 5 Best Works
Paulette Jiles, the brilliant mind behind ‘News of the World,’ is an accomplished author with a diverse body of work.
Born in 1943, Jiles has a deep love for history and often incorporates it into her writing. Her novels are known for their rich storytelling, vivid descriptions, and compelling characters.
Here are five of Paulette Jiles’ best works, in addition to ‘News of the World’:
- “Enemy Women” (2002): Set during the American Civil War, this novel follows the journey of a young woman accused of being a spy.
- “The Color of Lightning” (2009): Based on true events, this book explores the life of a freed slave in Texas during the 19th century.
- “Stormy Weather” (2007): Set in the Great Depression era, this novel delves into the lives of three women facing hardships and seeking redemption.
- “Lighthouse Island” (2013): A dystopian tale set in a future America, where a young woman dreams of escaping to Lighthouse Island.
- “Simon the Fiddler” (2020): A captivating story set at the end of the Civil War, following the journey of a musician seeking love and success.
These works showcase Paulette Jiles’ versatility as a writer and further demonstrate her ability to transport readers to different times and places.
Other Media by Paul Greengrass: List and Descriptions of 5 Works
Paul Greengrass, the director of the film adaptation of ‘News of the World,’ is renowned for his ability to bring compelling stories to life on the big screen. In addition to ‘News of the World,’ Greengrass has directed several other notable films.
Here are five of his works worth exploring:
- “United 93” (2006): A gripping drama that recounts the events of United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001.
- “Captain Phillips” (2013): Based on a true story, this intense thriller follows the hijacking of the MV Maersk Alabama by Somali pirates.
- “Bloody Sunday” (2002): A dramatization of the tragic events that unfolded during a civil rights march in Derry, Northern Ireland, in 1972.
- “The Bourne Ultimatum” (2007): The third installment in the Bourne film series, this action-packed movie follows Jason Bourne as he unravels the truth about his past.
- “Green Zone” (2010): Set in the early stages of the Iraq War, this political thriller uncovers a web of deception and corruption.
These films showcase Paul Greengrass’ talent for creating gripping narratives and his ability to tackle complex subject matters.
10 Similar Movies to ‘News of the World’
If you enjoyed the film adaptation of ‘News of the World’ and are looking for similar movies to delve into, here are ten recommendations that capture similar themes and storytelling:
- “True Grit” (2010)
- “Hell or High Water” (2016)
- “The Revenant” (2015)
- “Dances with Wolves” (1990)
- “The Homesman” (2014)
- “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” (2007)
- “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” (2018)
- “Meek’s Cutoff” (2010)
- “Hostiles” (2017)
- “Open Range” (2003)
These films share the rugged landscapes, compelling narratives, and exploration of human resilience that make ‘News of the World’ such a captivating story.
Other Works by Paulette Jiles: List and Descriptions of 5 Works
If you were captivated by ‘News of the World’ and want to explore more of Paulette Jiles’ writing, here are five other notable works by the author:
- “The Color of Lightning” (2009): Set in Texas during the Civil War, this novel tells the story of a freed slave seeking to reunite his family.
- “Stormy Weather” (2007): A tale set in the Great Depression era, following the lives of three women who form an unlikely bond.
- “Enemy Women” (2002): Set during the Civil War, this book explores the journey of a young woman accused of being a spy.
- “Lighthouse Island” (2013): A dystopian novel set in the future, where a young woman dreams of escaping to Lighthouse Island.
- “Simon the Fiddler” (2020): Set at the end of the Civil War, this captivating story follows the journey of a musician seeking love and success.
These works showcase Paulette Jiles’ ability to transport readers to different times and places, weaving together historical accuracy and captivating storytelling.
Book Club Discussion Questions for ‘News of the World’
If you’re part of a book club or simply want to delve deeper into the themes and characters of ‘News of the World,’ here are some discussion questions to spark meaningful conversations:
- How does Captain Kidd’s past shape his actions and decisions throughout the story?
- Discuss the challenges faced by Johanna as she tries to adapt to a new life. How does she overcome these challenges?
- Explore the theme of communication and its importance in the story. How does language (or the lack thereof) impact the characters?
- How does ‘News of the World’ explore the clash of cultures and the impact of historical events on individual lives?
- Discuss the relationship between Captain Kidd and Johanna. How do they influence and change each other throughout their journey?
These questions will help you delve into the rich layers of ‘News of the World’ and engage in thought-provoking discussions with fellow readers.
10 Similar Novels with Similar Plot to ‘News of the World’
If you enjoyed the plot and themes of ‘News of the World’ and are looking for similar novels to dive into, here are ten recommendations:
- “True Grit” by Charles Portis
- “The Revenant” by Michael Punke
- “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy
- “The Sisters Brothers” by Patrick deWitt
- “The Son” by Philipp Meyer
- “Cold Mountain” by Charles Frazier
- “The Orchardist” by Amanda Coplin
- “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead
- “The Crossing” by Cormac McCarthy
- “All the Pretty Horses” by Cormac McCarthy
These novels explore similar themes of survival, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of adversity, offering captivating stories that will keep you engrossed from beginning to end.
Parent Guide for ‘News of the World’
‘News of the World’ provides a captivating and educational reading experience for young adults and older children. However, due to the mature themes and some violent scenes depicted in the book, it is important for parents to consider the age and maturity of their child before recommending it.
The book explores complex historical events and cultural clashes, offering opportunities for discussions on empathy, resilience, and understanding. It is advisable for parents to read the book themselves before sharing it with their child, ensuring that they are comfortable with the content and can provide guidance and context where necessary.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for ‘News of the World’ Fans
If you’re a fan of ‘News of the World’ or know someone who is, here are some buying guide and gift ideas to celebrate the story:
- The Book and Film Combo: Consider purchasing a set that includes both the novel and the film adaptation. This allows fans to experience ‘News of the World’ in different formats.
- Soundtrack Vinyl: For music lovers, the soundtrack of ‘News of the World’ can be enjoyed on vinyl. This gift provides a nostalgic and immersive listening experience.
- Historical Fiction Book Set: If you enjoyed the historical aspects of ‘News of the World,’ consider gifting a set of historical fiction novels set in a similar time period or featuring captivating stories.
- Native American Artwork: Pay homage to Johanna’s heritage by gifting Native American artwork or traditional crafts. This not only celebrates the story but also supports indigenous artists.
- Travel Guide to Texas: For those who fell in love with the landscapes of ‘News of the World,’ a travel guide to Texas can inspire future adventures and help fans explore the real-life locations depicted in the story.
These gift ideas allow fans to further immerse themselves in the world of ‘News of the World’ and celebrate their love for the story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘News of the World’ by Paulette Jiles is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through post-Civil War Texas.
The story of Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd and Johanna is a testament to the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. By exploring themes of redemption, trauma, and cultural differences, Jiles creates a rich and thought-provoking narrative that will stay with readers long after they turn the last page.
Whether you are looking for similar novels to explore, a parent guide to navigate the themes of the novel with your child, or gift ideas for ‘News of the World’ fans, this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of all things related to ‘News of the World’.
So dive in, uncover the world of ‘News of the World’, and let its story captivate your heart and mind.
