Before reading this novel, I had no idea that Orphan Trains even existed. Did you? Trains full of orphaned children, heading west, lead by chaperones in search of families for these abandoned children? That part of my American History classes was skipped right on over. All three times, apparently.
This novel was so touching, yet so disturbing, as you can imagine. Not all of the orphans were greeted and welcomed by parents who just wanted a child to love. Some wanted additional workers for their farms. Some wanted mothers' helpers for already large families. Some wanted child labor for their small businesses. While I am very proud to be an American, I am not always proud of my nation's history. Especially where women and children are concerned.
Orphan Train focuses on two parallel stories, those of Vivian and Molly. One was an orphan long ago, one is an orphan now. Their lives and stories intersect and we come to love both women for their strength of character and we come to be proud of all that they overcome and achieve together.
As I read this story, I related most with Vivian. And wanted to strangle Molly, at times. While I was never abandoned by my parents, I did have a rather bumpy childhood due to issues within my home. I had enough guidance from other family members, and enough sense in my own head, to make a decision to be a good girl. I didn't rock the boat (Molly capsized hers), I followed the rules, and I did what I needed to do until I was old enough to leave and be on my own. I was, Vivian (to a certain point). Molly chose a different path for her life and I was so happy that she found Jack, a boy who could see beyond the Goth makeup and clothes and attitude and who was able to provide Molly with an opportunity that changed her life. In turn, she helped to change Vivian's.
This story is amazing. It was an easy read in the sense that the details were rich and full, you could follow the back and forth story with ease, and you never wanted to put the book down once you began. It will make you think and ponder and it will make you sad, at times. But the ending is so full of hope, it will make you smile and glad you read this story.
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
I'm taking advantage of this Snow Day to spend hours reading. This book is wonderful. It's beautifully written and I've gotten lost in the story. I knew of orphan trains because of Anne of Green Gables, but it's still hard to imagine it happening in real life.
ReplyDelete