Orphan Train: A Novel by Christina Baker Kline

The Orphan Train is a historical fiction novel that flips back and forth from present day to the past. I discovered a part of history, I had no idea existed.

There are more than 70 years between the two main characters. At first glace they appear as different as night and day but as you dig deeper you find that these two strong characters have more in common then they do with their own peers.

Both characters are orphans. One is a 91 years old woman and the other is 17 year old girl who is about to faze out of the foster system. They are brought together by circumstance and their stories weave together to create a mesmerizing and unforgettable story.

Vivian lost her family shortly after immigrating from Ireland to American and was forced to ride the orphan train in hopes that she would find a family that would love and treasure her. Her story on the train and life afterwards is beautifully constructed and will keep you enthralled.

Molly is in the foster system and has jumped from one unsatisfying family to another. She isn't shown true tenders and love and is struggling to find her niche in life.

Together, they learn from one another and form a bond that will warm your heart and give you faith that friendships can be forged despite large generational gaps.

My only complaint was that this book ended way to soon and was far to short. I was left wanting more, more, more!!!

Grade: A+