One City, One Story: Library Staff Recommend Orphan Train

Orphan Train cover and staff blurb

On the fence about reading our One City, One Story pick for 2016, Orphan Train? Let us convince you that it’s worth cracking open! You still have plenty of time to read it before the author, Christina Baker Kline, visits on March 31st at 7 pm. Call us at (626) 744-4066 option 7 or log in to our online catalog to request a copy today.

“I read this book about 18 months ago for a book club I’m in and really loved it! The consensus from the group was that it made a great conversation-starter. Who could imagine it would end up as our One City, One Story selection!” –Jan Sanders, Library Director

“The two intertwined stories are so spellbinding it’s hard to put this book down. The more you read, the more closely knit the stories become. A beautifully written look into a dark period of our history.” –Mary, Support Services

“A quick and satisfying read. Even the minor characters jump out of the page so that you miss them when you finish the book.” –Rosa, La Pintoresca

“The blessing or curse of reading literature is that it reminds us of what it means to be human. Orphan Train is one of those good novels that can agitate our emotions yet also sooth the soul. Its main protagonists, Molly Ayer and Vivian Daly, share a narrative that speaks of social injustice, human depravity, loss, friendship, and compassion. Their story reminds me of why we read—literature helps us come to understand humanity, to find our own humanity, and to treat others with a sense of humanity.” –Young, Adult Services

“A very engaging read! Orphan Train connects us to an important period of American history when East Coast orphans were put on trains for adoption in the Midwest from 1824 to 1929.” –Carolina, Lamanda Park

“It’s a heart-wrenching story about the incredible hardships orphans went through during an already difficult period of American history.” –AnnMarie, Children’s Services

Orphan Train is a great read. I really enjoyed how the author intertwined historic concepts with present day issues. I couldn’t put it down and would definitely recommend it as a fast, solid read!” –Melissa, Administration

“A story that bridges age gaps, through the tender heart of a child who has no home and must survive without the love of a family.  I love the kinship between the senior Vivian and the young Molly, as Vivian reflects upon her past as an orphan and Molly’s present challenges as a foster child.” –Penny, Public Services

“This was a very fast read with characters that I connected with immediately. Although Vivian goes through some very difficult experiences, she never lets them break her spirit and the connection that she finds as an older woman with foster child Molly was really the heart of the story for me.” –Illyanna, Virtual Services

From the Teen Book Club:

“A nice combination of American history and a look into the experience of orphans and the foster care system. It’s the first time I’ve heard about orphan trains. I’m curious to learn more.” –Kara E., grade 11

“This is the first historical fiction book I actually like!” –Madison C., grade 8

“It gave me a different perspective to the foster care system, orphans, and the life and challenges they have to go through.” –Mckenna B., grade 7

“A simple, yet enticing story!” –Liam K., grade 8