Reading Metrics
Description
The book follows twins Kirsty and David Murray, who are forced to leave their crofting home in the Scottish Highlands during the time of the Highland Clearances. The family relocates to Glasgow, where they face difficult conditions including poverty and child labor in the slums. Eventually, the family is given the opportunity to emigrate to Canada aboard a ship, facing a dangerous Atlantic crossing and uncertain future in a new land.
Quick Summary
The story follows the Murray family as they flee their Scottish homeland during the Highland Clearances and must survive gritty Glasgow slums before embarking on an ocean voyage to start fresh in Canada. Kids will root for the siblings as they navigate child labor, overcrowded tenements, and the terrifying decision to leave everything behind for an unknown new world. If your kid likes "Esperanza Rising" by Pam Muñoz Ryan, they'll love this story of a family finding hope during hard times. Ideal for kids ages 9-12 in grades 4-7 who enjoy historical fiction.