Rodzina Clara Jadwiga Anastazya Brodski, a strong and stubborn Polish orphan, leaves Chicago on an orphan train, expecting to be adopted and turned into a slave—or worse, not to be adopted at all. As the train rattles westward, she begins to develop attachments to her fellow travelers, even the frosty orphan guardian, and to accept the idea that there might be good homes for orphans—maybe even for a big, combative Polish girl. But no placement seems right for the formidable Rodzina, and she cleverly finds a way out of one unfortunate situation after another until at last she finds the family that is right for her. Like Karen Cushman’s other young girl protagonists, Rodzina is trying to find her place in the world—and she does.

The compelling narrative is laced with wry humor and keen observation, full of memorable characters, and a thoroughly researched Afterword.

Rodzina’s journey is an unforgettable piece of American history, brought to life for young readers.

• A Powerful Survival Story: Follow Rodzina, a twelve-year-old orphan from Chicago, as she navigates the perils and uncertainties of the westward journey, expecting slavery but hoping for a home.
• The Orphan Train Experience: Based on meticulous research, this story vividly portrays the historical orphan trains, from the harsh realities to the unexpected friendships formed along the tracks.
• Unforgettable Characters: Meet a cast of memorable fellow travelers, including a frosty but mysterious guardian, as Rodzina cleverly escapes one unfortunate situation after another.
• The Search for a Found Family: More than just a historical adventure, this is a heartfelt quest for belonging and the true meaning of family, laced with the wry humor and keen observation Karen Cushman is known for.