Among the Fallen
Among the Fallen by Virginia Frances Schwartz is a historical novel published by Holiday House on January 3, 2023. This edition spans 304 pages and is written in English. The story follows 16-year-old Orpha, who finds herself in Tothill prison, grappling with her traumatic past and the harsh realities of her surroundings. As she navigates the challenges of imprisonment, she strives to support and protect the other girls alongside her, all while haunted by her silence regarding the events that led her there.
Readers will encounter Orpha’s journey as she receives a life-changing letter inviting her to Urania cottage, a women’s home linked to the famed author Charles Dickens. This narrative delves into themes of social injustice, resilience, and the strength of young women in a historical context marked by inequality and poverty. Schwartz’s writing reflects Dickens’ serialized style, enhancing the atmospheric quality of the novel. Through Orpha’s experiences, the book addresses significant social themes, including sexual abuse and the struggles faced by girls and women in Europe during this era.
Official synopsis Publisher
Orpha doesn’t speak about what got her into prison.
No one would listen.
No one would believe her.
Haunted by nightmarish flashbacks and withering in the miserable conditions of Tothill prison, 16-year-old Orpha perseveres, doing what she can to befriend and protect the other girls imprisoned alongside her.
But then a mysterious letter arrives, offering her a place at a women’s home called Urania cottage. It sounds too good to be true–but with nowhere else to go, Orpha decides to take her chance. Soon she discovers the letter-writer is none other than Charles Dickens.
With the support of the other women of Urania and the promise of a real future, Orpha will have to confront the darkest parts of her past– and let go of her secrets.
This atmospheric historical novel, full of heartbreakingly real characters, celebrates the strength and resilience of young women throughout history. Virginia Frances Schwartz’s powerful prose, structured to echo Dickens’ serialized style, illuminates an era of startling inequality and extreme poverty. Fans of Laurie Halse Anderson’s Fever 1793, Margaret Atwood’s Alias Grace, and Katherine Paterson’s Lyddie will enjoy this riveting title.
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