Hector Malot's 'En famille' (often found in English as 'Nobody's Girl') is a book that starts with a gut-punch and never lets its heroine, or the reader, rest easy.

The Story

We meet Perrine, a sharp and resourceful 12-year-old, as her world collapses. Her beloved father, a French artist, dies suddenly in India. With his last breath, he gives her a mission: travel to France alone, find your grandfather, the rich and powerful Vulfran Paindavoine, and claim your place in the family. But there's a catch: she must hide her true identity until she's sure she's safe. What follows is an epic, cross-continental journey of survival. Perrine faces hunger, betrayal, and back-breaking work, all while clinging to her father's secret. She finally reaches the industrial town of Maraucourt and gets a job in her grandfather's factory, watching the family she can't yet claim from the shadows. The tension builds as she tries to figure out why her father was cast out and whether revealing herself will bring love or disaster.

Why You Should Read It

You read this book for Perrine. She's not a passive victim; she's a problem-solver. Her intelligence and quiet dignity in the face of constant hardship make you root for her fiercely. Malot doesn't shy away from the grim realities of poverty and child labor in 19th-century France, which grounds the story and makes Perrine's victories feel earned. The central mystery of the family feud is compelling, but the real heart of the story is watching this girl, armed with nothing but her wits and a faded photograph, navigate a world designed to crush her. It's about the search for belonging, and the idea that real family might be about more than just a shared name.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for anyone who loves a resilient underdog. If you enjoyed the pluck of Anne of Green Gables or the arduous journeys in classic adventure tales, you'll find a lot to love here. It's also a great, accessible entry point into classic French literature—it feels more like a page-turning story than a dusty old book. Just be warned: you'll likely get very angry on Perrine's behalf and then want to cheer out loud for her small triumphs. A truly satisfying read about the strength of one remarkable girl.