Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

From the paperback:
   Between 1854 and 1929, so-called orphan trains ran regularly from the cities of the East Coast to the farmlands of the Midwest, carrying thousands of abandoned children whose fates would be determined by pure luck. Would they be adopted by a kind and loving family, or would they face a childhood and adolescence of hard labor and servitude?
   As a young Irish immigrant, Vivian Daly was one such child, sent by rail from New York City to an uncertain future a world away. Returning east later in life, Vivian leads a quiet, peaceful existence on the coast of Maine, the memories of her upbringing rendered a hazy blur. But in her attic, hidden in trunks, are vestiges of a turbulent past.
   Seventeen-year-old Molly Ayer knows that a community-service position helping an elderly widow clean out her attic is the only thing keeping her out of juvenile hall. But as Molly helps Vivian sort through her keepsakes and possessions, she discovers that she and Vivian aren't as different as they appear. A Penobscot Indian who has spent her youth in and out of foster homes, Molly is also an outsider being raised by strangers, and she, too, has unanswered questions about the past.
   Moving between contemporary Maine and Depression-era Minnesota, Orphan Train is a powerful tale of upheaval and resilience, second chances, and unexpected friendship.

   First, how did I have no idea orphan trains ever existed?! I wonder how this is a part of American history that seems to be completely forgotten or at least overlooked. At the back of the book there is a small section titled A Short History of the Real Orphan Trains. It contains a very brief history and a few pictures with descriptions. I recommend taking a look at this section before reading the book. It contains no spoilers but for someone  completely unfamiliar with this I think it would be helpful before delving into the book.
  There isn't a whole lot to say about Orphan Train that isn't said in the description on the paperback. If you're a reader who is discouraged by jumps in time (I know you're out there,) have no fear! This book clearly states at the beginning of each chapter which time you're reading about and also what city/town you're in.
   I did love this book. It is just under 300 pages but reads much quicker than that. The story flows very nicely and the language is beautiful yet simple. The main characters are easy to sympathize with and there are a few characters you will hate. It's got a little bit of everything really, plus a look into a time that is nearly forgotten.