The Indian in the Cupboard

Written by Lynne Reid Banks

Book #1 in the The Indian in the Cupboard series

A toy Indian becomes real, sparking a secret friendship and adventure.

5.1/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 110,223 ratings

240 pages· 43,980 words· Est. 6 hour read

$8.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

On his birthday, Omri receives a plastic Indian toy, but a mysterious key brings it to life as Little Bear, a warrior from another time. As Omri navigates this magical secret, he must protect Little Bear from discovery. Can their unlikely friendship survive the challenges of two worlds colliding? Discover the magic and mystery that bind them together.

From the publisher

Full of magic and appealing characters, this classic novel takes readers on a remarkable adventure.

It’s Omri’s birthday, but all he gets from his best friend, Patrick, is a little plastic Indian toy. Trying to hide his disappointment, Omri puts the Indian in a metal cupboard and locks the door with a mysterious skeleton key that once belonged to his great-grandmother. Little does Omri know that by turning the key, he will transform his ordinary plastic Indian into a real live man from an altogether different time and place! Omri and the tiny warrior called Little Bear could hardly be more different, yet soon the two forge a very special friendship. Will Omri be able to keep Little Bear without anyone finding out and taking his precious Indian from him?

At a glance

Format
Pages: 240
Words: 43,980
Reading age: 8–12
Audience: Middle Grade
Lexile: 780L

Themes & topics

Books about magic Books about toys Books about culture Books about race and ethnicity Books about friendship

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.1

out of 7

5.5

“I enjoyed reading this entire series as a child and still find it an engaging story. There are however racist and sexist elements parents or educators should discuss with young readers.”

The Goodfather

Trusted reviewer

5.3

“It's a premise that has been explored pretty thoroughly in books and movies: what if my toys came to life? But this iteration of the classic question is engaging and fun, and a great book for upper elementary school readers. I'd especially recommend it for grades 3-5.”

Lauren Hancock

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one