About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with questions of origin or feeling like the 'odd one out' in their family circle. It is a soul-stirring choice for pre-teens navigating the complexities of identity, especially those touched by adoption or foster care. The story follows Sam, a boy born on a stagecoach and raised by the boisterous coachmen and guards he calls 'Ma' and 'Pa.' As he matures, Sam must reconcile his humble, unconventional upbringing with the sudden discovery of his mysterious biological roots. Leon Garfield's rich, Dickensian prose offers a sophisticated reading experience that validates the search for self. While set in the 18th century, the emotional core is timeless: the realization that family is defined by those who see us, love us, and help us find our voice. It is a masterpiece of historical fiction that balances humor, mystery, and a deep, resonant search for belonging.
