The Uncalled

Freddie Brent faces the challenges of orphanhood after the death of his mother, with his father presumed dead. While some in the church want to send him to an orphanage, Miss Hester, an inexperienced but determined woman, takes him in, though her rigid views lead to misunderstandings. Freddie finds solace in the visits from Eliphalet Hodges, who offers him kindness and a paternal bond. This novel captures the complexities of faith, community, and the African American experience, showcasing Dunbar's powerful storytelling in his debut as a novelist.