"Girls of the True Blue" by L. T. Meade is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Nan Esterleigh, an eleven-year-old girl who faces the turmoil of losing her mother and adjusting to a new life after her mother's death. The novel explores themes of grief, resilience, and the journey of childhood amidst personal challenges. The opening of the book introduces Nan during a poignant moment with her dying mother, showcasing her strong bond with her despite their dire circumstances. After her mother's passing, Nan's life transitions as she is taken in by Mrs. Richmond, who promises to care for her. Despite her grief, the narrative hints at Nan's determination to keep her mother's memory alive while struggling with feelings of being a "charity-girl." The early chapters also introduce new characters, such as the future cousin, Augusta Duncan, hinting at upcoming dynamics and challenges for Nan as she navigates her new life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)