The Ogress and the Orphans

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By Kelly Barnhill

Publisher Description

A National Book Award finalist and instant fantasy classic about the power of community, generosity, books, and baked goods, from the author of the beloved Newbery Medal winner The Girl Who Drank the Moon.

The town of Stone in the Glen used to be lovely, but it hasn’t been so in a very long time.

Once a celebrated town with a vibrant town square, prosperous businesses and families, and educated, happy children, Stone in the Glen has fallen on hard times. Since the expansive and beloved Library burned with other buildings in a time of terrible fires, the town has been plagued by droughts, blight, and destruction.

But the people have continued to put their faith in the Mayor, a dazzling fellow with a bright shock of golden hair and brilliant white teeth who promises that he alone can solve their problems. And he is a famous dragon slayer! At least, no one has ever seen a dragon in the Mayor’s presence…

But somebody is to blame for the town’s problems, not only the fires and the decline that followed them, but the child who has gone missing from the local Orphan House. And with a little helpful suggestion from the Mayor, all eyes turn to the Ogress who has come to live at the far edge of town.

Only the children of the Orphan House know the truth. Together, they must clear the Ogress's name and solve the mystery of the town's destruction before their home of Stone in the Glen is destroyed by its own people.

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Stay organized

Keep track of what you’re reading, what you’ve finished, and what’s next.

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Share your take with other readers with half stars, emojis, and tags

Curate your feed

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566 Reviews

4.0

RevRacoon

Created about 12 hours ago

Tired😁

Created 3 days ago

“It was, very simply put, a beautiful book. For the first time in years, I was able to enjoy a fairytale.”

Likeable Memorable Multilayered

Bex

Created 7 days ago

“Kelly Barnhill has once again delivered an enchanting tale, reaffirming why she remains one of my favorite authors. The Ogress and the Orphans is a beautifully woven story that explores the profound impact of kindness and the ripple effect a single act of generosity can have on an entire community. Barnhill’s whimsical and immersive writing style makes this book a delight to read, drawing readers into the world of the orphans, the Ogress, and the struggling town they all call home. Each character feels alive and authentic, from the resilient orphans to the gentle Ogress. The townspeople, with all their flaws and virtues, add depth to the narrative, though I must admit, the butcher was not among my favorites. However, the crows, especially Harold, truly stole my heart with their wit and charm. The story serves as a heartwarming reminder of the importance of looking beyond fear and prejudice to see the good in others. It challenges readers to reflect on their own perceptions and the judgments they may hold. While the book didn’t quite reach five stars for me, it remains a magical and meaningful read that I would happily recommend to others.”

Change and grow Likeable Engaging Fascinating Motivational Persuasive Rewarding

Rach

Created 8 days ago

andrea | @drebookthoughts

Created 9 days ago

“Another book finished by Kelly Barnhill!! Ever since I have read her book, The Girl Who Drank the Moon, I have been on a lookout for her books. This one didn’t disappoint 🥹 I love how the story flows from beginning to the end, how the characters are well-laid especially the Mayor (politically speaking) and the people living in it. The diverse personalities of the orphans, the impeccable role of the crows, and the Dog (I love dogs haha) The story highlighted how one person can be a catalyst of change, either for goodness or wickedness. It shows how fear, ignorance, and greed can cause neighbors turn them from one another. But it also showed how kindness, compassion and neighborliness can transform a depressed place to a lively community. Apart from this, I like how it places emphasis on the role of Books and The Library. As a reader, it warms my heart to know how big of an impact the books in this story. Can’t wait to read more of Kelly’s works!! 😍”

About Kelly Barnhill

Kelly Barnhill is a bestselling author of books for children and adults, including The Girl Who Drank the Moon, winner of the Newbery Medal; The Ogress and the Orphans, a National Book Award finalist; and the highly acclaimed novels for young readers The Witch’s Boy, Iron Hearted Violet, and The Mostly True Story of Jack. She is also a winner of the World Fantasy Award and has been a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award, the Andre Norton Nebula Award, and the PEN America Literary Award. Kelly lives in Minnesota with her husband and three children, and she invites you to visit her online at kellybarnhill.com or on Bluesky @kellybarnhill.bsky.social.