92 pages • 3 hours read
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390
Novel • Fiction
2022
Middle grade
8-12 years
The Ogress and the Orphans by Kelly Barnhill is a children's fantasy story set in the town of Stone-in-the-Glen, where the kind Ogress secretly helps the residents with treats while the town's deceptive Mayor, a disguised dragon, manipulates them. The orphans, who never believe the false accusations against the Ogress, help her and the townspeople recognize her true benevolence, leading to community restoration and the eventual unmasking of the Mayor's deceitful nature.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Contemplative
8,026 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kelly Barnhill's The Ogress and the Orphans is highly praised for its lyrical prose, enchanting storytelling, and rich themes of community and kindness. Critics appreciate its timely social commentary, though some note a slower pace may deter younger readers. Overall, it’s a heartwarming tale that resonates with both children and adults.
Readers who enjoy heartwarming tales with a touch of magic, similar to The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill or The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo, will relish The Ogress and the Orphans. This book is perfect for fans of middle-grade fiction that combines fantasy with deep, emotional storytelling.
8,026 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Mayor/Dragon
The antagonist who takes pleasure in creating chaos and discord within the town, driven by an insatiable greed for wealth.
Anthea
The eldest orphan known for her logical approach and dedication to improving the lives of others, particularly through her research and storytelling.
Bartleby
The philosophical second-oldest orphan with mismatched eyes who explores multiple perspectives to understand the world around him.
Cass
An action-oriented orphan who steps up to take on additional responsibilities during challenging times and unintentionally triggers major events in the story.
Elijah
A young orphan with a special affinity for stories, representing the archetype of a storyteller within the fairy tale genre.
Myron
The husband of the Matron of the Orphan House who bravely rescued books from a fire, embodying the idea of living fully despite his injuries.
The Butcher
A town resident who is swayed by the Mayor's influence but demonstrates a more compassionate side when helping during a crisis.
Harold
A crow associated with the Ogress who is shunned by other crows for prioritizing the town’s welfare over traditional crow behavior.
The Stone
An omniscient narrator of the story that holds all knowledge and represents boundless wisdom without human biases.
The Cobbler’s Wife
A voice of reason and community leader who steps up to organize the town and assist the Orphan House, later assuming a leadership role.
The Younger Orphans
Representatives of non-traditional families who rely on the older orphans, highlighting themes of growth and responsibility.
The Matron
The adult in charge of the Orphan House, exhibiting leadership while gradually allowing the younger generation to take on more responsibility.
390
Novel • Fiction
2022
Middle grade
8-12 years
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