1. Were you familiar with the story of the “orphan trains” before now? What do you think of them as a way of relocating orphans from orphanages?
2. Did it surprise you to see Adam and Newton react badly to Charlotte’s new romance? Why or why not?
3. At one point, Josephine vows, “I will not be made a fool of.” What do you think of that approach to life?
4. Charlotte tells Josephine at another point, “Never make peace. Never, never, never.” What do you think of that approach to life?
5. Do either of these women live up to these declarations?
6. J. M. Bridges takes on the management of the timber operation and mine without having any experience in either. Is he brave or foolhardy?
7. How do you see Bridges’ reading as compared with his actual experience?
8. The novel ends with several characters apparently embarking on new stages in their lives. How do you imagine things turning out for them?