The Ogress and the Orphans

• Genre: Fiction; children’s/middle grade fantasy
• Originally Published: 2022 
• Reading Level/Interest: Grades 4-7 
• Structure/Length: 54 chapters; approximately 390 pages; approximately 13 hours on audio
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story is set in a town that has fallen into mistrust and disrepair; the allegorical narrative revolves around the orphans of the town and the Ogress living on its edge who attempt to remedy the town’s woes through kindness and truth. The novel explores themes of community, kindness, and the impact of stories and rumors. 
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Fantasy themes; depictions of societal neglect, intolerance, and ostracization; themes of loss and loneliness; animal abuse; fantasy violence and gruesome details; environmental destruction; use of alcohol

Kelly Barnhill, Author 

• Bio: Born 1973; former teacher; known for children’s and middle grade fantasy novels; focuses on themes of magic and empowerment in her works; advocate for children’s literacy; recipient of numerous literary awards; active in the literary community 
• Other Works: The Witch’s Boy (2014); The Girl Who Drank the Moon (2016); Iron Hearted Violet (2012) 
• Awards: An ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults selection

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Judgment Does Not Give Us Information
• Facts Matter
• Kindness Is a Choice

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will: