<DIV>The Great Irish Famine of 1845?51 was caused by the repeated failure of the potato crop, Ireland's staple food. It devastated the population, causing one million people to starve to death and forcing another million to emigrate to America and Australia. <I>Esty's Gold</I> tells the story of one family that is forever changed as a result of the famine. Esty's childhood world is shattered when her father is killed defending starving Irish peasants. Suddenly forced to leave home and work as a maid, it is only the dream of gold and a better life in Australia that keeps her going. With stubborn determination, she gets her family to the goldfields of Ballarat. There, harsh conditions, deceit, and rebellion threaten to thwart them . . . but nothing is going to destroy Esty's dream. This gripping adventure story by an award-winning Irish writer tells a timeless tale of hope and courage.</DIV>