Heidi

by Johanna Spyri
Heidi cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Children's Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £2.99–£8.99 Hardback • £12.99–£14.99 CD-Audio • £10.99
Bookshop
Format • £6.64–£19.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 1624
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9789386348791
  • Publisher: Jaico Publishing House
  • Published: 2017-01-01
  • Formats: 90
  • Reviews: 4

Heidi is a heartwarming tale of a young girl who moves from the bustling city to the serene Swiss Alps to live with her reclusive grandfather. There, she forms a deep bond with nature and the local villagers, including her dear friend Peter. Her innocent and joyful spirit brings warmth and change to those around her, teaching valuable lessons about love, resilience, and the simple pleasures of life. /n/n The story beautifully captures the essence of childhood adventure and the transformative power of kindness. Heidi's journey from the city to the mountains is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and emotional one, making it a timeless classic that resonates with readers of all ages.

Reviews
The New York Times · 2024-11-26
relaxing 3.50

Heidi is a slow-moving novel that focuses more on scenery than action, making it a unique and relaxing read. It's a book that moves at its own pace, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the beautiful Swiss Alps.

Heidi is a novel that moves at a pace that might surprise some readers. It's not a book filled with action or adventure, but rather a story that takes its time to paint a vivid picture of the Swiss Alps. This slow pace allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the scenery and the simple, yet profound, messages of the story. The lack of action might be a turn-off for some, but for those looking for a relaxing and nostalgic read, Heidi is a perfect choice. It's a book that will transport you to a simpler time and place, making it a unique and enjoyable experience.

Quick quotes

    Heidi is the three-toed sloth of children's books; it moves so slowly, with such little action, that whole ecosystems could grow around it.

    I was surprised to find this novel more about scenery than about action.

    It's a book that moves at its own pace, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the beautiful Swiss Alps.

Coffee Books and Cake · 2023-01-20
nostalgic 4.50

This book is a nostalgic read with a beautiful message and stunning landscapes. It is a heartwarming story that celebrates the power of nature and friendship.

If you're looking for a heartwarming and nostalgic read, Heidi is a fantastic choice. The book's beautiful landscapes and sweet message make it a joy to read. The story's focus on the power of nature and friendship is particularly touching, and it's easy to see why this classic has stood the test of time. The simplicity of the writing and the vivid descriptions of the Swiss Alps make it a perfect escape from the complexities of modern life. Whether you're reading it for the first time or revisiting it as an adult, Heidi is a book that will leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

Quick quotes

    This was such a nostalgic read for me and I loved it and the sweet message it conveys.

    First of all, let us begin with the beautiful landscapes that Spyri paints so vividly.

    Heidi is a heartwarming story that celebrates the power of nature and friendship.

abookwormsmusing.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2015-09-09
cherished 5.00

Heidi by Johanna Spyri is a timeless classic that retains its magic upon re-reading. The story's simplicity and the world it creates around Heidi make it a beautiful and engaging read, evoking nostalgia and warmth.

Heidi by Johanna Spyri is a book that stands the test of time. The story effortlessly transports readers into Heidi's world, making them part of her adventures in the Alps and her experiences in the city. The characters evolve beautifully, and the novel's message about transformation and determination is heartwarming. While some parts may focus too much on religious themes, they do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book. The novel's ability to evoke nostalgia and warmth makes it a cherished read that will remain dear for a long time.

Quick quotes

    Some books are evergreen. No matter how many times you read them or re-read them, they retain the same magic as they had when you first read them.

    As children, we do not look for plot structures, twists, thrill and action or what not. What we look at is the story, if it keeps us engaged and takes us into a world where we become part of it once we enter.

    This is a book that’ll continue to remain dear for a long time to come, and that says a lot about the novel itself.

The Guardian · 2015-05-27
recommended 4.00

Heidi is a classic book that is highly recommended for readers aged 11 and up. It teaches valuable lessons about the power of friendship and the importance of kindness.

Heidi is one of those classic books that everyone should read at some point in their lives. The story is timeless and the lessons it teaches are universal. The power of friendship is a central theme, and it's beautifully illustrated through the bond between Heidi and Clara. The book also highlights the importance of kindness and compassion, making it a valuable read for young adults. The simple yet profound messages in Heidi make it a book that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. It's a story that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    This is one of those classic books that I would highly recommend to anyone, 11 years and upwards.

    It taught me about the power of friendship and the importance of kindness.

    The simple yet profound messages in Heidi make it a book that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

Appears in Lists