The novel A Family Apart took place during the Civil War between the years 1854 and 1929. During this time of war many families were poor, due to the many supplies that were needed in battle. They had to work many jobs and lived in crowded conditions. This was the case for the Kelly family living in New York City during this time. They were a family of six children, and a widowed mother, that tried hard to provide for her children the life they deserve.

The six children Frances Mary, Megan, Peg, Mike, Danny and Peter all helped their mother in any way they could. Frances Mary worked along side her mother and they built a close relationship with each other. Megan and Peg cooked the family meals and sewed clothes to help their mother and Frances. Mike and Danny worked on the streets as shoe shiners and collected...