The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

Vivian began life as Niamh, the oldest daughter of an Irish Immigrant family in the 1920's.  A series of unfortunate events finds her on one of the orphan trains heading west from New York City.  Eighty some years later she "hires" Molly to help her clear the boxes in her attic.  Molly has been passed from one foster home to another.  Her Goth facade is designed to keep people away so the many good-byes in her life will be less painful.  After trying to steal a copy of Jane Eyre from the local library she finds herself working off her community service hours with Vivian.  As the boxes are opened, their stories are revealed in alternating chapters.  Separated by generations, they share many of the same challenging life experiences and show the same determination to overcome them. As Molly's task draws to an end, Vivian shares a secret that will send both of them on an unexpected and virtual journey.  I was soooooooo happy that the book ended like it did.