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Sep 21, 2016readerF451 rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
Orphan Train felt like a very crafted book. It is among a group of books where alternating stories of the past and present are woven together, and end on a hopeful note. The historical section involving the story of the Orphan Train was more successful to me. The background story for Vivian and her journey were more compelling than Molly, the present day protagonist. Her story did not feel true to me, but I am far from a teenager at this point in my life. If the author had given a more general backstory on the present day plight of some Native Americans, the comparison would have held together for me in a better way. The theme of outsiders was evident, but in the end, I never felt attached to either of the main characters. This book seems very suitable for young adult readers, as the teenage years are so much a search for identity and belonging. The language is simple and the stories lend themselves to a compare and contrast discussion. If you found this book your cup of tea, you will also enjoy A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner.