Freckles (1904) is a novel by Gene Stratton-Porter. An immediate
bestseller, Freckles--her second novel--established Stratton-Porter's
reputation as a leading naturalist and writer of the American Midwest.
Written for children and adults alike, Freckles is a classic tale of
struggle and survival set in one of Indiana's iconic wilderness regions.
Raised in an orphanage, targeted for his red hair, accent, and missing
right hand, Freckles grew accustomed to constant abuse. As an adult, he
escapes Chicago and makes his way to the Limberlost Swamp, a vast
wetland region along the Wabash River in Indiana. There, he finds work
with the Grand Rapids lumber company, earning the trust of experienced
woodsman McLean. Tasked with walking the perimeter of the forest to
protect the company's land from thieves, Freckles gains a reputation as
a dedicated and efficient guardian of the trees. When a fight leaves him
badly injured, he meets a beautiful young girl while recovering from his
injuries. For the first time in his life, he knows what it is to be
loved. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset
manuscript, this edition of Gene Stratton-Porter's Freckles is a
classic work of American literature reimagined for modern readers.