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304
Novel • Fiction
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 1910s
2020
Adult
18+ years
The Orphan Collector by Ellen Marie Wiseman follows 13-year-old German immigrant Pia Lange, living in Philadelphia during the 1918 flu pandemic. After Pia's mother dies, leaving her to care for her infant brothers, Pia falls ill and is separated from them. Neighbor Bernice Groves, grieving her own loss, kidnaps the twins and begins exploiting other immigrant children. Pia's journey to find her brothers reveals themes of survival, resilience, and the impacts of societal prejudice during a crisis. Descriptions of death, child abuse, racism, anti-immigrant bias, kidnapping, and suicidal ideation appear in the text.
Dark
Melancholic
Emotional
Challenging
65,701 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Orphan Collector by Ellen Marie Wiseman is compelling for its vivid portrayal of the Spanish flu pandemic and its impact on an orphaned girl. Positive reviews highlight its gripping narrative and historical accuracy. Criticisms center on some predictable plot points and emotional intensity that can feel overwhelming. Overall, it’s a moving but intense read.
Readers who appreciate historical fiction with emotional depth, akin to The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline, will be captivated by Ellen Marie Wiseman's The Orphan Collector. Fans of stories that explore resilience and the human spirit during challenging times will find this a compelling read.
65,701 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bernice Groves/Nurse Wallis
A religious war widow who, rationalizing her actions as patriotism, takes drastic measures that affect Pia's family during a crisis.
Finn Duffy
Pia's compassionate friend from school, originally from Ireland, who supports her and stands up for her amidst challenges.
Mrs. Hudson
A kind and generous woman who hires Pia and becomes a supportive figure in her life, treating her with warmth and understanding.
Dr. Hudson
A doctor who values Pia's unique abilities and supports her as a father figure in the household.
Mutti/Mrs. Lange
Pia's mother, who navigates the challenges of immigrant life in America, instilling strength and care in Pia before her passing.
Ollie & Max/Owen & Mason
The four-month-old twin brothers of Pia, who become central to the story after a significant event alters their lives.
Rebecca Stillman
A young mother connected to the Hudsons through a tragic circumstance, who later helps Pia and Finn.
304
Novel • Fiction
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 1910s
2020
Adult
18+ years
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