Rodzina is a 210 page historical novel for children, teens, and interested adults written by the Newbery Award author Karen Cushman and first published in 2003. The summary by Dell Yearling Books reads as follows:
In 1881, twelve-year-old Rodzina Clara Jadwiga Anastazya Brodski wishes she didn't have to board the orphan train in Chicago. But she has no home, no family, and.no choice. Rodzina doesn't believe the orphans are on their way out West to be adopted by good people. She's sure they will become slaves to strangers. Anyway, who would ever adopt a large, tough, stubborn girl from Poland? As the train heads west, all Rodzina carries with her is a small suitcase and her memories of her family. Will she ever step off the train to find the family that, deep in her heart, she's searching for?