Mildred Popp

Ellie Mildred Popp

One morning in 1930, twelve-year-old Ellie Mae Williamswakes to discover that her father has lost his job. Elliedoesn't want her friends to know of her father'sunemployment, but it soon becomes common knowledge as herfamily plunges into financial hardship during the Great Depression. The family must cut the extras out of their life and do odd jobs tomake money. Ellie quits her piano lessons, her mother takes inwashing, and her father raises chickens. During the summer, Ellie goes swimming with her friends, helps herparents around the house, and tries to adjust to a lifestyle borderingon poverty. When she receives a mysterious letter postmarked fromChicago with no return address, Ellie is surprised to find only asheet of music inside. She plays the piece and soon receivesanother letter encouraging her to continue practicing her piano. Although the family doesn't have much money for Christmas, thereare presents for the children, a delicious roast chicken, and a realChristmas tree. Ellie still continues to practice her piano, and whenthe new year dawns, she receives another package from Chicagocontaining more music. Will Ellie discover the sender's identity orwill it remain a mystery?