Sent

by Margaret Peterson Haddix • 2009 • 320 pages

3.94

17.9K ratings

Science Fiction Young Adult Time Travel

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Plot Summary

Tumbling Through Time

Jonah, Katherine, and Chip's unexpected journey

Jonah, Katherine, and Chip find themselves tumbling through time, clutching onto each other as they are inadvertently sent to the fifteenth century. They are caught in a void, with only the mysterious Elucidator and a Taser in hand. JB, a time agent, warns them of the dangers of their unintended journey, but they are determined to stick together. As they fall, Jonah grapples with the fear of the unknown, especially the fifteenth century, a time he knows little about. The trio lands in darkness, disoriented but resolved to face whatever challenges await them in this unfamiliar era.

A King's Dilemma

Chip's royal identity revealed

Upon landing, Jonah, Katherine, and Chip discover they are in the fifteenth century, and Chip is revealed to be Edward V, the rightful king of England. The group learns that Chip's uncle, Richard, has usurped the throne, and Chip's life is in danger. As they navigate this treacherous political landscape, they must decide whether to fight for Chip's crown or find a way back to their own time. The weight of history presses upon them, and they realize the complexity of their situation, where every action could have far-reaching consequences.

Ghostly Tracers

Encountering their historical counterparts

The trio encounters ghostly tracers of Chip and his brother, Alex, showing what would have happened if history had not been altered. These spectral figures reveal the boys' original fate, and the group grapples with the reality of their situation. The tracers serve as a haunting reminder of the past, and Jonah, Katherine, and Chip must decide whether to intervene or let history take its course. The presence of the tracers adds a layer of urgency to their mission, as they realize the stakes are higher than they imagined.

A Dangerous Game

Navigating political intrigue and danger

As they delve deeper into the fifteenth century, Jonah, Katherine, and Chip find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue. They must navigate the dangerous waters of court politics, where alliances are fragile and betrayal lurks at every corner. The group struggles to maintain their cover while seeking allies who can help them restore Chip to the throne. The tension mounts as they realize that their actions could alter the course of history, and they must tread carefully to avoid catastrophic consequences.

The Battle of Wills

Confronting Richard and the fight for the crown

The group faces a pivotal moment as they confront Richard, the usurper king. Chip must decide whether to reclaim his throne or find another way to ensure his survival. The confrontation is fraught with tension, as Richard's motives and true nature are revealed. The group must use all their wits and courage to navigate this dangerous encounter, knowing that the outcome will determine their fate and the future of England. The battle of wills between Chip and Richard becomes a defining moment in their journey.

A Royal Deception

Crafting a plan to save Chip and Alex

Jonah, Katherine, and Chip devise a plan to save Chip and Alex from their historical fate. They must create the illusion of the boys' deaths to ensure their safety and return to the twenty-first century. The plan requires careful execution and the cooperation of unexpected allies. As they put their plan into action, they face unforeseen challenges and must adapt quickly to changing circumstances. The success of their mission hinges on their ability to outwit their adversaries and navigate the complexities of time travel.

The Final Stand

A climactic battle and a return home

The group faces their final challenge as they attempt to escape the fifteenth century. A climactic battle ensues, testing their resolve and determination. As they fight for their lives and the future of England, they must rely on their newfound skills and the bonds they have forged. The outcome of the battle will determine whether they can return home or be trapped in history forever. In the end, they must confront the reality of their actions and the impact they have had on the course of history.

Characters

Jonah

Reluctant hero and time traveler

Jonah is a thirteen-year-old boy who finds himself thrust into the role of a time traveler. He is determined to protect his friends and sister, Katherine, as they navigate the dangers of the fifteenth century. Jonah is resourceful and quick-thinking, often coming up with plans to get them out of tight situations. He struggles with the weight of his responsibilities but ultimately rises to the challenge, proving himself to be a capable leader.

Katherine

Fearless and determined sister

Katherine is Jonah's younger sister, who accompanies him on their time-traveling adventure. She is brave and resourceful, often taking the lead in dangerous situations. Katherine is fiercely protective of her brother and friends, willing to risk her own safety to ensure their well-being. Her quick wit and determination make her an invaluable asset to the group as they navigate the complexities of the past.

Chip (Edward V)

Rightful king and reluctant hero

Chip, also known as Edward V, is the rightful king of England. He is thrust into a world of political intrigue and danger as he fights to reclaim his throne. Chip struggles with the weight of his royal identity and the expectations placed upon him. Despite his initial reluctance, he grows into his role as a leader, showing courage and determination in the face of adversity.

Alex (Richard)

Loyal brother and prince

Alex, also known as Richard, is Chip's younger brother and a prince of England. He is loyal and supportive, standing by Chip's side as they navigate the dangers of the fifteenth century. Alex is intelligent and resourceful, often providing valuable insights and solutions to the group's problems. He shares a close bond with Chip, and their relationship is a source of strength for both of them.

JB

Mysterious time agent and guide

JB is a time agent who guides Jonah, Katherine, Chip, and Alex on their journey through time. He is knowledgeable and resourceful, providing the group with the tools and information they need to navigate the past. JB is enigmatic and often keeps his true motives hidden, but he ultimately proves to be a valuable ally in their quest to save Chip and Alex.

Richard III

Usurper king and complex antagonist

Richard III is the usurper king of England, who has taken the throne from his nephew, Chip. He is a complex character, driven by ambition and a desire for power. Richard is both a formidable adversary and a tragic figure, struggling with guilt and remorse for his actions. His interactions with the group reveal the complexities of his character and the challenges they face in their quest to restore Chip to the throne.

Queen Elizabeth Woodville

Cunning and protective mother

Queen Elizabeth Woodville is the mother of Chip and Alex, determined to protect her sons from the dangers of the fifteenth century. She is intelligent and resourceful, using her political acumen to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics. Her love for her children is evident in her actions, and she plays a crucial role in the group's efforts to save Chip and Alex.

Plot Devices

Time Travel

Central mechanism for adventure

Time travel is the central plot device that drives the narrative, allowing Jonah, Katherine, Chip, and Alex to journey to the fifteenth century. It introduces the complexities of navigating a different era and the challenges of altering history. The Elucidator, a mysterious device, serves as their guide and tool for manipulating time, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to their adventure.

Tracers

Ghostly echoes of history

Tracers are ghostly figures that represent what would have happened if history had not been altered. They serve as a haunting reminder of the past and the potential consequences of the group's actions. The presence of tracers adds urgency to the narrative, as the group must decide whether to intervene or let history take its course.

Political Intrigue

Navigating a web of alliances and betrayals

The narrative is steeped in political intrigue, as the group navigates the dangerous waters of court politics. Alliances are fragile, and betrayal lurks at every corner, adding tension and complexity to their mission. The group's interactions with historical figures reveal the intricacies of power and the challenges of altering history.

Analysis

Exploration of identity and responsibility

"Sent" delves into themes of identity and responsibility as Jonah, Katherine, Chip, and Alex grapple with their roles in history. The narrative explores the complexities of time travel and the moral dilemmas of altering the past. The characters' journey is one of self-discovery, as they confront their fears and grow into their roles as leaders and protectors. The story raises questions about the nature of history and the impact of individual actions, challenging readers to consider the consequences of their choices. Through its engaging narrative and richly developed characters, "Sent" offers a thought-provoking exploration of time, identity, and the power of friendship.

Last updated: February 3, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Sent about?

Accidental time travelers : Jonah, Katherine, and Chip are unexpectedly sent to the 15th century, where Chip is revealed to be the rightful King Edward V.
Navigating a dangerous past : They must navigate political intrigue, ghostly tracers, and the threat of Chip's uncle, Richard III, to survive and potentially alter history.
A fight for survival : The story focuses on their struggle to protect Chip and Alex, and their attempts to return to their own time, while grappling with the complexities of time travel.

Why should I read Sent?

Intriguing time travel: The book offers a unique take on time travel, exploring the consequences of altering the past and the challenges of navigating different eras.
Complex characters : The characters are well-developed, with their own motivations and flaws, making them relatable and engaging.
Fast-paced plot : The story is filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

What is the background of Sent?

Historical setting : The story is set in 15th-century England, during the reign of Richard III, a period of political turmoil and power struggles.
Time travel concept: The book explores the concept of time travel and its potential impact on history, with a focus on the idea of "tracers" representing unaltered timelines.
Adoption themes : The characters' experiences with adoption and identity are woven into the narrative, adding a layer of emotional depth.

What are the most memorable quotes in Sent?

"Time knows how it's supposed to flow." : This quote highlights the theme of time's persistence and the difficulty of altering its course.
"You have to let us try to save Alex and Chip and time.": This quote showcases Jonah's determination and the group's commitment to their mission.
"Sometimes you have to fight for what you want. Sometimes the fight is all you get." : This quote reflects Chip's internal struggle and his acceptance of his fate.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Margaret Peterson Haddix use?

Fast-paced narrative : Haddix employs a fast-paced, action-oriented narrative style that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the story.
Multiple perspectives : The story is told from the perspectives of multiple characters, allowing readers to see events from different angles and understand their motivations.
Foreshadowing and suspense : Haddix uses foreshadowing and suspense to create tension and keep readers guessing about what will happen next.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The Elucidator's changing form : The Elucidator's ability to change its appearance to blend in with different time periods symbolizes the fluidity of time and the challenges of time travel.
The mud on Katherine's armor: The mud on Katherine's armor after she slips in the swamp highlights the physical challenges of time travel and the characters' vulnerability.
The recurring mention of food : The characters' hunger and their longing for familiar foods emphasize their displacement and the stark differences between their time and the 15th century.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Simba and The Lion King : Jonah's thoughts about Simba's desire to be king foreshadow Chip's own struggles with his royal identity and the dangers that come with it.
The science museum mirrors : Katherine's fascination with the science museum mirrors foreshadows the blending of the characters with their tracers.
The mention of the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María : Jonah's casual mention of Columbus's ships foreshadows the vastness of time and the fact that they are in a time before America was "discovered."

What are some unexpected character connections?

JB and Hadley Correo: The revelation that JB and Hadley Correo are colleagues and friends adds a layer of complexity to the time travel agency and their methods.
Chip and Alex's shared memories: The boys' ability to share memories and thoughts when connected to their tracers highlights their deep bond and the complexities of time travel.
Richard III's grief: Richard's genuine grief over his son's death and his desire for forgiveness adds a layer of complexity to his character, challenging the reader's perception of him as a pure villain.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Hadley Correo : Hadley's presence as a fellow time traveler who is also a soldier adds a layer of complexity to the time travel agency and their methods.
Queen Elizabeth Woodville: The queen's intelligence and determination to protect her sons, even from sanctuary, highlight her strength and resourcefulness.
The Whiskery Soldier : The whiskery soldier's unexpected help and possession of an Elucidator reveal the existence of other time travelers and their influence on history.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Jonah's desire for belonging: Jonah's eagerness to return home and his longing for familiar foods reveal his deep-seated desire for belonging and stability.
Katherine's need for control: Katherine's frustration with the chaos of time travel and her desire to take charge highlight her need for control and her fear of the unknown.
Chip's struggle with identity: Chip's internal conflict between his twenty-first-century identity and his royal heritage reveals his struggle to reconcile his past and present selves.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Chip's acceptance of fate: Chip's initial acceptance of his supposed death and his later desire to reclaim his throne reveal his complex relationship with his destiny.
Alex's longing for his mother: Alex's longing for his mother and his desire to protect her highlight his emotional vulnerability and his deep-seated need for family.
Richard III's internal conflict: Richard's internal conflict between his ambition and his guilt reveals the psychological toll of his actions and his struggle for redemption.

What are the major emotional turning points?

The discovery of the tracers: The encounter with the tracers forces the characters to confront the reality of their situation and the potential consequences of their actions.
The attempt to save Chip and Alex from the window: The near-death experience at the Tower of London forces the characters to confront their own mortality and the dangers of time travel.
Richard's offer to return the crown: Richard's unexpected offer to return the crown to Chip forces the characters to reevaluate their goals and their understanding of the past.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Jonah and Katherine's sibling bond: Jonah and Katherine's relationship evolves from typical sibling rivalry to a deep bond of trust and mutual support.
Chip and Alex's brotherhood: Chip and Alex's relationship is strengthened by their shared experiences and their unwavering loyalty to each other.
The group's reliance on each other : The group's reliance on each other grows as they face increasingly dangerous situations, highlighting the importance of friendship and teamwork.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

Jonah's original time period: The story leaves Jonah's original time period ambiguous, raising questions about his true identity and his place in history.
The nature of time travel: The mechanics of time travel and the nature of the Elucidator remain somewhat mysterious, leaving room for interpretation and speculation.
The long-term consequences of their actions : The long-term consequences of the group's actions on the timeline are left open-ended, raising questions about the nature of free will and destiny.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Sent?

The morality of altering history : The group's decision to alter history raises questions about the ethics of time travel and the potential consequences of interfering with the past.
JB's motives and actions: JB's motives and actions are sometimes ambiguous, leaving readers to question his true intentions and his role in the story.
Richard III's character: Richard III's complex character and his moments of remorse challenge the traditional view of him as a pure villain, sparking debate about his true nature.

Sent Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

The group's return to the present : The group returns to the present, but their experiences in the past have changed them, highlighting the lasting impact of time travel.
The release of the ripple : The release of the ripple signifies the restoration of the timeline, but it also raises questions about the nature of fate and free will.
The uncertainty of the future : The ending leaves the future uncertain, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of time and the importance of living in the present.