Review : The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

Title : The Orphan Train
Author : Christina Bake Kline
Publication date: April 2, 2013 by William Morrow Paperbacks

Now, when you look at The Orphan Train's cover, do you also think that it's a little haunting? I know I am now the only one *sighs* There's something in it that declares itself being a sad book. Don't ask me why, but I am so in the mood for sad book lately, so I had to pick this book. You may also notice that my next reviews would be of gloomy books as well.

Molly Ayer is a troubled 18 year old girl. She lives under the roof of foster parents who could care less about her. Because of her behavior she had to do a community service, by helping a 91 year-old lady, Vivian Daly, clean her house (who was one of the passengers of the orphan train).

The first chapter of The Orphan Train is very strong as it convinced me to keep reading. I like Kline's writing style, it's emotional, powerful and straight to the point. However, it's too "light" for adult book. It's like eating potato chips when you are expecting a big chunk of burger in your mouth. It's still good, but it's less satisfying.

I cared about Vivian, not so much about Molly though. Maybe because Kline doesn't really give Molly much room to develop. In this book, Molly was no more than an interviewer, which is a shame because somehow, I think she could be a stronger and memorable character instead of one dimensional and forgettable one.

Vivian has this complex childhood. It's very clear that deep down she's very fragile because her past leaves deeps scars. In the other hand, Molly is somewhat a little unbelievable. She's a rebel, she wears nose rings, a goth girl who loves book. Very much she even steals in from the library. I've never met a goth girl in my life, does a book worm really dress as a goth? I don't think so.

Yes, this is a sad book. I let out a tear or two, but it's interesting enough to keep me going. I think teenagers who keep on whining that they hate their life should read this book. Really. Life was a great struggle back then, at least this book makes me even more grateful that I live in a modern world.

Now, it's time for my favorite quote:

“It is good to test your limits now and then, learn what the body is capable of, what you can endure.” 

I have to say that I actually like this book. My main annoyance is the ending. It's extremely rushed, and I wish the author would add more depths to it. The ending kind of ruins the great story behind it, which is a shame.

4 rating for The Orphan Train. Those of you who like historical fiction, you may want to add it into your to-read list. Oh, since, this book is set back and forth with historical and modern year, I had to label it as a contemporary fiction, in case you wonder why. Your turn, did you read some gloomy books lately? Anything good you'd like to recommend?