Nobody's Girl (novel)

Nobody's Girl is a novel written by Hector Malot, originally published in French under the title En Famille in 1893. It is a companion novel to Nobody's Boy (Sans Famille).

The story follows Perrine Paindavoine, an orphaned girl who endures hardship and poverty while traveling across France with her mother, who is searching for Perrine's paternal grandfather, Vulfran Paindavoine. Vulfran, a wealthy factory owner, disapproved of his son's marriage to Perrine's mother, an Anglo-Indian woman, and disinherited him.

After her mother's death, Perrine, now alone and penniless, continues the search for her grandfather. Using her wits and resourcefulness, she eventually finds work in her grandfather's factory, concealing her identity. Over time, she wins his trust and affection, eventually revealing her true identity.

Nobody's Girl explores themes of family, perseverance, social injustice, and the importance of kindness and compassion. Like Nobody's Boy, it highlights the plight of vulnerable children in 19th-century France. The novel is known for its sentimental tone and its portrayal of Perrine as a strong and independent young woman who overcomes adversity through her own determination.