In 1835, Ellie, Max and their father set sail from England to a new life in Upper Canada. Grandmother in England is opposed to the move. “She’s not strong,” sniffs Grandmother. “There will be no churches or schools. How can you even consider such a thing?” Once they arrive in Canada, Papa leaves the children with a family of strangers while he travels alone to find land and build a cabin. Homesick and unused to pioneer life, Ellie makes an enemy of Mary, who dislikes Ellie’s fine clothes and London manners. But as the days go by, Ellie’s problems are replaced by a growing fear. Where is Papa? Why hasn’t he come back for them?

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