Biddy is the twin daughter of two Northern Irish immigrants who came to America and were met with immediate prejudice and racism. They persevered to eventually own and run their own Erie Canal “packet boat,” but then became prejudiced and racist in their own way against Italian, Chinese, and Jewish people. Biddy then becomes the catalyst for empathy, education, and connection.

Note: Though this story is historical fiction and includes the hard realities of racism, we still believe it is appropriate for children age 8+. It shows that racism, no matter how ingrained, can be overcome when people from different backgrounds find a connection.