Girl Alone

by Anne Austin

"Girl Alone" by Anne Austin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the life of Sally Ford, a 16-year-old girl living in a state orphanage, and her emotional struggles as she transitions from the institution to the outside world. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the harsh realities faced by orphans, as well as Sally's powerful sense of hope and resilience despite her circumstances. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Sally and the other young girls in the orphanage, depicting the stark and tough conditions of their lives. As they scrub the floors of their dormitory, we see Sally’s maternal nature emerge as she entertains the younger children through play-acting. The narrative then shifts to Sally's impending departure from the orphanage, as a farmer named Mr. Carson comes to take her for the summer. This transition is filled with anticipation and fear for both Sally and her small charges, highlighting her mixture of excitement and dread about leaving the only home she has known. Overall, the opening establishes a profound connection between Sally’s nurturing spirit and her desire for a sense of belonging, setting the stage for her journey ahead.