THE HOUSE OF DIES DREAR

BY: VIRGINIA HAMILTON

 

SUMMARY:

 

            Virginia Hamilton has composed a mysterious, historical and suspenseful children’s book that brings an Underground Railroad to life for the Small family.  Thomas Small is a young boy that embarks on an adventure when he and his family relocate to Ohio.  His father is a history buff and purchases a home that is legendary in the small town.  In the 1800’s, Dies Drear was the original builder and owner of the Smalls' new home.  He and two other slaves were murdered and are presumed to still occupy the house with their spirits.  The house is described as huge, historical, abandoned and secretive.  There are many characters in the book that have special interests concerning the house and the possible treasures and artifacts that still may remain from the slaves that passed through on their journey to freedom.  The original impressions that the reader forms about the characters change throughout the story when motives and ancestry are discovered by the Small family.  It is certainly a dramatic mystery that provides insight into the way that Underground Railroads and the abolitionists established a movement that lead to freedom.