Setting

In the Chattahoochie Valley of Alabama, 1900, Belle McLaren, age 13, is the oldest of three orphans who are being separated by their relatives.

Character and Conflict

Belle is a bit angry with God for the deaths of their parents, and for being torn from siblings she promised her dying father to care for.

Background

Before being sent to an orphanage, Belle's Uncle Denny provides a pleasant home for her on his farm. She excels in school and dreams of college, which her uncle has promised to finance.

Plot Twist

Then he marries the Widow Fetner, who has her own plans for use of Belle's college funds. How will independent Belle face up to this new turn of events?