The sequel to Under the Hawthorne Tree, Wildflower Girl, is told from Peggy's point of view. She's the youngest of the three children.

Seven years have passed, Peggy is now 13 years old, and many Irish have left their country to make a new life elsewhere. Eily is to be married, and Michael has found his dream job as a stable boy. There are few jobs to be had, and Peggy fears she will always be nothing more than a helper for her older sister, Eily. So when the opportunity arrives to go to America, Peggy is keen, but her siblings are not. She wins the argument and goes on her own.

The book tells the story of hope, dreams, hardship and mistreatment. The story moves fast and gives a good account of the travel by ship from Ireland to Boston.

Once in America, Peggy is on her own and must find a way to support herself. Again, I cannot imagine anyone her age starting an adventure of this kind. I would be terrified the entire time. But, the thing is, young people of that time did emigrate to another country.

Recommended. ( )

Set seven years after "Under the Hawthorn Tree", this books follows the journey of young Penny as she leaves Ireland and travels to America in search of a better life. Throughout the book, Penny faces many hardships including seasickness, loneliness, homesickness and abuse from horrible employers.

Despite Penny being my least favourite character in the first book, her determination and strength of character quickly won me over and I admired her courage, compassion and determination.

Once again, a beautifully written book by the author, and now I am off to find the last novel in this terrific trilogy. ( )

The second in The Children of the Famine series, this book was just as gripping as the first, Under the Hawthorne Tree
If I were twelve years old, I think this would be one of my favorite series. ( )

this book talks bout she wonts to become a american and she comes to american to work to take care of her family. ( )

After reading Under the Hawthorne Tree I wanted to read the second book in the trilogy to follow the characters. Again, I enjoyed the storyline and knowing what was happening with these Irish children. Recommend. ( )