Patrick and the Orphan Train

by T.J. Murphy

Patrick Flynn's father dies, leaving him in charge or his younger sister, Katie, in 1901 New York City. Arranged by his father, Patrick embarks upon the Orphan Train, heading for a new home in the West. He meets and befriends Sarah the Sparrow, a street kid. There is also Jimmy the Brick and Scar Benny--a couple of mean Bowery boys. They taunt and abuse Patrick, making his life miserable. Patrick hopes to find a new family in the West, but is rebuked at every stop for various he is too old, too slight, too insistent on not parting with Katie. Even a tornado threatens to destroy his quest for a new home. Only upon arriving in Wichita, Kansas does Patrick find that which he is seeking. He and Katie begin fresh lives with a new family. And friends made aboard the train will remain friends forever. But will enemies remain enemies?

277 pages, Paperback

First published January 3, 2013