In 'Hetty Gray; or, Nobody's bairn' by Rosa M. Gilbert, the reader is transported to nineteenth-century Scotland, where the protagonist Hetty Gray must navigate through a society marked by poverty and hardship. The novel's narrative style is reminiscent of Victorian literature, filled with vivid descriptions of rural landscapes and the struggles of the working class. Gilbert expertly weaves a tale of resilience and survival, making 'Hetty Gray' a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and societal issues. The book sheds light on the plight of orphaned children in a time when social welfare systems were virtually non-existent. This context adds depth to the story and prompts readers to reflect on the parallels with contemporary social challenges.