Sara Crewe is a young pupil at Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies and it is clear from the start that she is favored.

Of course she is - she's absolutely loaded. A private room, custom gowns, more toys than what she could ever play with.

The teachers resent her and the other students envy her.

And yet...and yet...Sara is the kindest soul of them all. Always quick to lend a hand or provide guidance or comfort the younger ones.

And (of course) her actions do nothing but stir the pot of hatred from the others.

And then, the worst possible thing happens - Sara's father dies, and with it her fortune. Suddenly the teachers have no problem with being cruel to Sara's face.

And the little princess becomes nothing more than a servant.

But Sara maintains her aura of poise and grace - she will be a princess in riches or rags. And maybe, just maybe, her life will get better.

Oh my gosh. First I read the Secret Garden and I'm blown away. Then I read this one and I'm just in love.

I cannot get over just how wonderful Sara is, the hardships she faced and the true kindness she showed despite it all.

This is such a truly amazing story - I cannot recommend it enough!!

Victorian children's literature is some of the most depressing you'll ever read.