The House of Dies Drear
The House of Dies Drear
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1968
Book Brief
256
Novel • Fiction
Ohio • 1960s
1968
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
The House of Dies Drear by Virginia Hamilton is a children's historical mystery novel that follows 13-year-old Thomas Small and his family as they move into a home in 1960s Ohio that once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Thomas explores hidden passages and encounters mysterious figures, uncovering secrets about the house's history and its prior caretaker, Mr. Pluto, while dealing with suspicious locals.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Unnerving
Dark
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
4,142 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Virginia Hamilton's The House of Dies Drear captivates readers with its intricate blend of history and mystery, invoking the rich legacy of the Underground Railroad. Many praise its vivid atmosphere and strong protagonist. However, some note that the pacing can be slow and the plot occasionally convoluted. Overall, it remains a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The House of Dies Drear?
A reader interested in The House of Dies Drear by Virginia Hamilton would enjoy historical fiction with a touch of mystery and supernatural elements. Comparable to readers of The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead and Coraline by Neil Gaiman, they appreciate rich historical context and eerie atmospheres geared towards young adults.
4,142 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
256
Novel • Fiction
Ohio • 1960s
1968
Middle grade
10-14 years
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