Left on the train platform of some strange village, eight-year-old Saffron Faith Anders is certain her father will return shortly, just like he promised. When a peculiar old woman carrying a large umbrella approaches and inquires about her situation, Saffron doesn't immediately trust the imposing do-gooder, but eventually does agree to rest at her house while they wait for her father together. Saffron's stay was supposed to be for a few minutes, but confined to a house not unlike one Hansel and Gretel might have encountered, Saffron will undergo months-and then years-of transformation at the hands of the Umbrella Lady. When mysterious letters arrive from Saffron's father, saying he has started a new family and will send for her shortly, hope returns to her heart.
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