Dotty Dimple at Play

by Sophie May

"Dotty Dimple at Play" by Sophie May is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Dotty Dimple, a spirited little girl, as she navigates her adventures between home and the experiences she encounters while visiting friends. The book emphasizes themes of childhood innocence, imagination, and the excitement of exploration, particularly in relation to Dotty's interactions with the blind children at the asylum they visit. The opening of the book introduces Dotty Dimple and her cousin Katie as they prepare for a journey to Indianapolis, where they will visit the Blind Asylum. The narrative captures the essence of their youthful exuberance and naivety, as they share playful banter and express their excitement about traveling in the train. As they arrive at the asylum, Dotty is struck by the sight of the blind children and is filled with curiosity and compassion. Her conversations reveal her innocence, as she tries to understand the concept of blindness and the lives of the children she meets, setting the stage for her growth and understanding throughout the novel.