NETTIE AND NELLIE CROOK: ORPHAN TRAIN SISTERS by E.F. Abbott
Twins Nettie and Nellie spent a lot of time together, just the two of them. Their father was often away for long periods of time to find work, their older brother worked all day, and sometimes their mother would disappear for weeks–especially after their baby sister died. But one day a man arrives to take the children away, saying that they are not being cared for properly. At six years old, Nettie and Nellie find themselves in an orphanage, even though their parents are still alive. Not long afterward they are put on a train and sent West with a group of other children in search of “forever homes.” But some homes are not as wonderful as they are cracked up to be.
Based on the true story of the Crook sisters, Abbott’s book gives readers a glimpse into what it might be like to be placed in foster care or adopted in the early twentieth century. Neither the characterization nor the settings are particularly vivid; the book is plot driven. But the subject matter is interesting, and may especially appeal to readers now that Simone Biles’ Olympic wins are raising awareness of what foster care and adoption are like today. I would recommend this book to third and fourth grade readers who are interested in history.
Susan the Librarian 