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When her mother dies in 1627, fourteen-year-old Pen joins a Dickensian group of young people in London. Their hideout is raided by kidnappers, and the children are shipped to Virginia to become indentured servants. While Pen and the adventurous Rose eventually find kindness, their London leader has a much harsher experience. Pen is an appealing protagonist, and the early narrative compels, though later it loses some fluidity.