Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon charms with its whimsical illustrations and relatable protagonist. Reviewers praise its humor, imaginative storytelling, and appeal for early readers. However, some find the narrative too chaotic. Overall, it's celebrated as a delightful, engaging read for children, despite minor critiques on storyline coherence.

A reader who delights in the whimsical and imaginative adventures of young characters, similar to those found in Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park and Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows, will enjoy Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon. This book appeals to early elementary readers with a penchant for humorous, relatable narratives.

Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon follows the imaginative adventures of six-year-old Dory, nicknamed "Rascal," whose playful antics frustrate her older siblings, Violet and Luke. When her siblings dismiss her as too immature, Dory creates a vivid fantasy world involving imaginary friends and monsters to entertain herself, ultimately seeking her siblings' acceptance and attention.

- Dory Fantasmagory is the debut book of Abby Hanlon, which introduced the whimsical world of a young girl with a lively imagination.
- The series has received significant acclaim for its child-like charm and humor, earning it multiple prestigious awards and nominations, such as the 2015 E.B. White Read-Aloud Award.
- Abby Hanlon, prior to writing Dory Fantasmagory, was a first-grade teacher, and her experiences in the classroom heavily influenced her writing style and understanding of children's perspectives.

**Dory**  
The six-year-old protagonist with an energetic imagination who creates fantastical scenarios and imaginary friends, often leading her into amusing and mischievous situations.

**Luke**  
Dory’s older brother, the middle child, who initially rejects Dory's imaginative games but eventually grows more accepting and affectionate toward her.

**Violet**  
The eldest sibling who is dismissive of Dory’s antics, preferring structured play, and often excluding Dory from her more traditional games.

**Dory’s Parents**  
Generally unsupportive of Dory’s imagination, they are often depicted as exasperated by her behavior, reinforcing the perception of her immaturity.

**Mrs. Gobble Gracker**  
An imaginary antagonist created by Dory’s siblings, depicted as a fearsome baby kidnapper, who becomes a vivid figure in Dory’s imagination.

**Mary**  
Dory’s main imaginary friend, a small horned monster who actively participates in Dory's games, providing companionship and a sense of safety.

**Mr. Nuggy**  
An imaginary figure resembling a gnome who appears during Dory’s emotional lows, helping her with imaginative transformations and games.

Abby Hanlon

Middle grade

Novel

Dory Fantasmagory

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Dory Fantasmagory reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Dory Fantasmagory | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Dory Fantasmagory and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Dory Fantasmagory Summary and Study Guide

Background

Dory Fantasmagory Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Dory Fantasmagory Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-4 

Dory Fantasmagory Chapters 3-4  Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-6

Dory Fantasmagory Chapters 5-6 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Dory Fantasmagory Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Dory Fantasmagory Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Dory Fantasmagory Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Dory Fantasmagory Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Dory Fantasmagory Essay Topics

Dory Fantasmagory

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Dory Fantasmagory?

Reading Age

Book Details