Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of two women, Vivian Daly and Molly Ayer, whose lives become intertwined through a shared experience on the orphan trains of the early 20th century.
The novel alternates between Vivian's past as an orphan train rider and Molly's present as a troubled foster child. Vivian's story is heartbreaking and illuminating, shedding light on a little-known chapter of American history. As a young Irish immigrant sent on a train from New York City to the Midwest, she endures hardships and uncertainty as she is shuffled from one foster home to another. Molly, a modern-day teenager in foster care, finds solace in Vivian's story as they form a bond and help each other heal from their past traumas.
Kline's writing is evocative and emotionally resonant, capturing the struggles and resilience of both women. She skillfully weaves together the past and present narratives, drawing parallels between Vivian and Molly's experiences and highlighting the enduring impact of the orphan train era on generations of children.
Orphan Train is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, family, and belonging. It shines a light on a forgotten piece of American history and reminds us of the resilience and strength of the human spirit. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction or stories of personal growth and redemption.