Donald and Dorothy

Dorothy Reed wants to understand why mentions of Aunt Kate seem to trouble her beloved Uncle George. Her brother Donald urges patience, and their disagreement introduces a family story set in a comfortable house overlooking a lake. Mary Mapes Dodge gives the siblings distinct temperaments: Dorothy is lively and questioning, while Donald is steadier. Their affection for each other and for their uncle sits alongside a growing curiosity about family matters.

Everyday scenes give this children's novel much of its character. The household includes Liddy, the housekeeper, Jack, a sailor who serves as coachman, and the aging dog Nero. Elsewhere, Dorothy visits Charity Danby, who is trying to remember her history lessons while caring for little Jamie and putting the house in order. Dorothy takes Jamie outdoors to give Charity some relief. The book offers readers sibling banter, domestic humor and a look at how children learn to notice the needs of others.