Although many orphan train titles are available, this is particularly balanced by honestly portraying and discussing the system, children, recipients, and outcomes in context. Chapters alternate between relaying the stories of children placed with Western families and information regarding the orphan train system. As the children's accounts are relayed using their viewpoints and words, the corresponding text is juvenile, yet fitting. While some found loving families, others did not, and it is emphasized that although caseworkers labored for positive placements, perfection, regardless of the era, is unattainable. Another sobering point is that however difficult some situations, these children were, indeed, orphans who, at that time, would otherwise have died or faced a desperate life relegated to the streets.Chapters feature exceptionally large fonts and widely spaced text, with numerous photographs and various reproductions of flyers and forms. Highlighted quotations fill a large amount of space. Graphics containing facts not found elsewhere in the text are useful and interesting. The featured children's adulthoods are more tantalizing than fulfilling, as only summary details are provided. Additional information about their lives, especially lifespans, would have been welcome. The book contains traditional end features. Three Common Core critical thinking questions appear, but seem more obligatory than supplemental. Although meant for middle level readers, this novel's content will interest all ages.Lisa A. Hazlett.