The Fifteen Streets — Catherine Cookson

Life in the Fifteen Streets...
was a continual struggle for survival. Some families gave up hope and descended into a state of perpetual despair. Others, like the O'Briens, maintained a fierce determination to transcend the bitter poverty into which they had been born. For Mary Ellen O'Brien, hope lay in the wisdom and strength of her children. There was gentle Katie, whose bright beauty and quick mind led her to a new world of learning; Dominic, fast-tempered and strong-willed; and there was John--the most determined to escape the cruel poverty of the Fifteen Streets, the most passion-ate, courageous and loving of all the O'Briens .. .