As young orphans living in a remote Chinese village, Ching and her brother, Foo, escape their cruel caretaker and embark on a perilous journey of survival. When the children are taken into a luxurious home by their father’s cousin, they hope for a new beginning. While they both find themselves surrounded by kindness, Ching does not share the same opportunities as her brother. Then, when the honorable grandmother becomes ill, Ching’s sweet disposition, loving heart, and eagerness to care for Grandmother A-Mah may prove to be the very qualities that help her win the respect of her new family.

This delightful story, set in mid-1800s China, sweeps readers along on a memorable journey through geography, culture, tradition, kindness, and the bonds of kinship.

From The Good and The Beautiful Edition

Note: Based on the following passage from the book, we feel this book is set during the 1910's (and not in the mid-1800's as stated in the above description).

"How long have we lived here in the Black Dragon Gorge?" Ching now asked her brother.

"Since the year of the Emperor Tung-Che," answered Foo, counting five on his fingers.

Chinese reckon their years from the time a certain emperor began to reign, and Foo didn't even know that his great big country was now no longer an Empire but a Republic with a President at its head.

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