About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a massive life transition, such as a cross-country move or a change in family status, and needs to see a model of grace under pressure. Set against the backdrop of the 17th-century Saugus Iron Works, the story follows Queenie Ross, a high-born Scottish girl who loses everything and is forced into indentured servitude in the American colonies. It is a powerful exploration of how one's true identity is forged through character rather than social standing. Parents will appreciate the historical depth and the way the book tackles complex themes of class, labor, and justice without being heavy-handed. It is particularly suited for middle schoolers who are beginning to navigate their own sense of independence and fairness. By following Queenie's journey from a life of privilege to one of hard physical labor, children learn that resilience is not just about surviving change, but about finding a new sense of belonging and purpose in an unfamiliar world.
