Julia Cunningham (1916–2008)

I read Julia Cunningham’s classic 45 years ago and never forgot this slim, atmospheric book or its unique title. I bought the book for a reluctant reader, who has loved it — and persuaded others to read it, as well. So I decided on a re-read these many decades later.

Dorp Dead remains just as interesting, just as mysterious, just as chilling as it was when it was first released. And it has inspired me to seek out other Cunningham novels, including her National Book Award finalist The show more Treasure Is The Rose. A quick and riveting read that’s highly, highly recommended for readers of any age. show less

Julia Cunningham has done a brilliant job of creating a chilling tone and great suspense story in a rather small amount of pages. The metaphors and morals of this dark book are what make it so strong. Another novel about acceptance, Gilly, an orphan, who wasn’t considered to be very smart, (why the title is spelled how it is) is actually quite brilliant. Faced with many challenges and the stereotype of “being different” this will be a very relatable story.

first line: "To tell about Ariane is to try to grow a rose on paper without the touch of sun and moon, rain and snow that make it real and growing."

I owned this book as a child, and found (and reread) it as an adult. A historical novel for children (set in the Middle Ages), this is a pretty little book, illustrated with intricate line-drawings. The overarching themes are forgiveness, and understanding, and gentleness in the face of violence; I can understand why the book left an impression show more on me in childhood, even though I'm bothered by the passivity of the heroine and the too-tidy ending. show less

After Gilly's grandma dies, he lives in the village Home for Children. Gilly hides his intelligence and maintains a loner status, not socializing with the other kids but taking refuge in an abandoned tower. One day he learns he's been taken in by the village ladder maker, Mr. Kobalt. Mr. Kobalt maintains a precise schedule and routine, and keeps a spotless house. He expects Gilly to do the same and Gilly is quite content with it and Mr. Kobalt's loner ways. But there are cracks in Mr. show more Kobalt's facade and Gilly soon realizes he needs to escape his situation before it's too late. show less