This book is part of my 9yo's homeschool curriculum and not something I would ordinarily have picked up. It's a nice story, set in Appalachia during the Great Depression. Ellie and her family struggle to survive far from their home & community, forming both fragile friendships of necessity, and deeper relationships with the families that chose to live on Echo Mtn generations ago. Ellie is a great protagonist with real depth and beautiful growth.