Stacey Heather Lee is an American author of young adult fiction, best known for Under a Painted Sky and Outrun the Moon. Her works tend to be contemporary and historical fiction, with some magical elements. She is also an award-winning author of historical and contemporary young adult fiction. A native of Southern California and fourth-generation Chinese American, she graduated from UCLA, then got her law degree from UC Davis King Hall. She has two children and was born on August 13, 1979.
Stacy Lee
The Book
Valora Luck has two things: a ticket for the biggest and most luxurious ocean liner in the world, and a dream of leaving England behind and making a life for herself as a circus performer in New York. Much to her surprise, though, she's turned away at the gangway; apparently, Chinese people aren't allowed into America.
But Val has to get on that ship. Her twin brother, Jamie, who has spent two long years at sea, is on board, as is an influential circus owner. Thankfully, there's not much a trained acrobat like Val can't overcome when she puts her mind to it.
As a stowaway, Val should keep her head down and stay out of sight. But the clock is ticking and she has just seven days as the ship makes its way across the Atlantic to find Jamie, audition for the circus owner, and convince him to help get them both into America.
Then one night, the unthinkable happens, and suddenly Val's dreams of a new life are crushed under the weight of the only thing that matters: survival.
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My Unlucky Life
I stood beside my luggage while calling for my three year old. “Clara! Clara!” She bounces down the small hallway out of my bedroom, her blonde curls swaying as she goes running towards me. I opened my arms, welcoming her hug as she jumped up onto me.
“Daddy!” I held Clara in my arms as my wife, Emily, followed into the foyer, she had just woken up as her hair was a mess and she was still dressed in a nightgown. She leaned up onto her toes, kissing me on the cheek, her aqua blue eyes glistened from the sunlight that was hitting through the stained glass panel above the front door.
“Good morning Charles,” She wrapped her arms delicately around Clara and took her off me. Clara’s fingers began to twirl around her blonde hair, thin and simple. “You don’t want to have breakfast before your journey?” Emily’s mouth curled into a grin while her pearl white teeth glowed..
“I would love to,” Minty hints of toothpaste escaped my mouth as I said, “But, I have to make it to the boat by 7.” I frowned, glancing at the grandfather clock that rested against the wall. It was almost 6:45, 6:41 to be exact.
Emily placed Clara onto the wooden floors and she skipped off into the playroom. “I know this is supposed to be a great thing but I have a bad feeling.” She rested her forehead against my chest. Emily wrapped her hands around my waist as tears began to stream from her eyes.
“I’ll miss you too.” I squeezed my eyes shut while we shared the silent moment together. I knew this would be the last time I would see my family for a while, but it was a good thing. I was getting paid well and was going on the greatest ship in the world.
Clara soon came charging back into the room and Emily and I separated. I knelt down on my knee for one last and gave Clara a big bear hug with a kiss on the forehead. Silence filled the room as Clara squeezed me tight and Emily soon joined. We all sat huddled on the floor when the clock rang for 6:50.
“Oh goodness, I must go now.¨ I gave Emily a kiss on the lips and rushed to pick up my luggage. I snagged my hat off of the hook and started to head out the door when Emily reached for my sleeve.
I turned my head back towards my wife and child to see a smile on both of their faces. Emily let go of my sleeve, “Please stay safe.” She then did a little wave with her hand, urging me to go so I won't be late. I hurried towards our shabby Ford Model T. As I hopped inside the vehicle I looked out of the window to my small home to see Clara and Emily waving at me through the entryway.
As I drove along the gravel path towards the boat I noticed there was not an ounce of parking. I cursed softly under my breath, concerned of where my car will end up. As I sat in traffic, I checked my watch. 6:57, this was no way to start work. I swerved my car towards a dead end street and found an empty spot at last. When I got out of my car I quickly grabbed my wallet and luggage. I then sprinted down the street to the boat entrance, trying my best not to mess up my slicked back brown hair and my rental suit.
When I finally reached the entrance I quickly went to E deck, searching for the crew quarters so I could drop off my carry-ons. I still had about two hours until the passengers boarded so I decided to head to the kitchen and get some breakfast.
“Good morning Joseph.” I smiled when I stepped into the kitchen, reaching out my hand to shake his.
“Hey Charles.” He whipped some batter for what I assumed was cake and yanked off his glove. His sweaty hand wrapped around mine as we greeted each other.
“So, are you excited?” Joseph asked me as he continued on with his cooking.
“For what?” I wasn’t exactly sure what he had said, his thick American accent had a bit of a barrier for our conversations.
“What do you mean, ‘for what!?” He laughed, “We are on the greatest ship in the world!” He exclaimed while I went over to the fridge for a hard boiled egg.
“Oh” I munched on the egg while trying to speak. “I guess, I’m going to miss my family though.” I gulped down the egg, realizing this was a great opportunity for me.
“Yea, I have a 9 and 7 year old at home. My wife passed so they are staying with my grandfather.” He said in a hushed tone, I assumed he met papa as that's what the british call their grandfather.
I looked down to my wrist watch, noticing it was now almost 8. “Oh goodness, I have to go prepare for the entrance. It’s almost time for the passengers to board!” I said in a jolly tune as I swerved around the corner.
“Bye Charles, good luck!” Joseph yelled through the door, noticing I was gone.
I took a woman's boarding pass as well as her luggage and handed it to the stewart. “Have a wonderful time on the RMS Titanic!” I said, shaking her hand with my gloved one. “Next!” I bent over to take a sip of water when I called for the next person.
“Afternoon, sir. I am Valora Luck.” Her delicate cold hand swiped over mine as she handed me the ticket. I glanced down to look at her ticket, making sure all the correct information layed on the paper.
When I straightened out my neck and looked up I noticed her inspecting my uniform, she seemed fairly interested in the company logo that laid upon my visor. A gold wreath, red flag, and white star.
“Destination?” I tried to keep the words minimal as there were many scrambled into a line behind her.
“New York, same as the rest.” She moved her face into a perplexed expression as if she had no idea what I had said.
“New York, huh.” I stared down at the paper in front of me, expecting more. “Documentation?” I realized what was missing from the clutter of items.
“You’re holding it right there, sir,” She sputtered out, her face beginning to turn a minimal shade of red while she shifted back and forth, embarrassed by her cluelessness.
I gave a glance to Sam, the officer running the line next to me. He held the passenger log in his hand while skimming through it to find her name. “Luck?” He finally peered up from the paper after what had seemed like minutes.
“Yes.” The girl flattened out her dress, reminding me of the way Clara would sometimes.
Shaking out of my daydreams of my daughter, I look back up to her, a stern face. “You’re Chinese, right?”
I already knew the answer but let her respond anyway. “Half of me.” She spoke quietly.
I began to prepare myself for lots of fighting and took a deep breath. “Then at least half of you need documentation.” I said and saw a defeated look form onto her face. “Ain’t you heard of the Chinese Exclusion Act? You can’t go to America without papers. That’s just how it is.” I said in a tough voice, making me seem serious enough.
She fiddled with her fingers, violent but also nervous. “Wh-what?” She finally mustered out. I could tell a million things were racing through her mind as she changed expressions by a second. “But my brother’s on this ship, too, with the members of the Atlantic Steam Company.” Here comes the argument. “They’re all Chinese. Did they get on?”
The sounds of tapping feet and groans started to fill the gangway as the girl tried to fight. “I don’t keep the third-class register. You’ll need to get off my gangway.” I said no more and just looked her fiercely in the eyes.
“B-but my lady will be expecting me.”
“Where is she?” I protested, trying to figure out some way to keep this line moving.
She looked up for a moment but then backed down towards me, “ Mrs. Sloane wanted me to board first to make sure her room was ready. “ It seemed as if she was reading off a memorized script, her movements seemed awfully unnatural.
“We had her trunk forwarded here a week ago. I must lay out her things.” She rushed for another excuse while I thought how it was strange that a rich person was unable to unpack their belongings.
I huffed and waved the ticket in my hand. “Well, you’re not getting on this ship without the proper documentation. I’ll keep this for when she boards.” Stuffing the flimsy paper into my pocket I shouted for the next person in line. However, she held her ground as the grumbles began to rise even higher.
“No, please! I must board! I must–” She pleaded with me when I interrupted her.
“Robert, escort this girl off.” I shouted now displeased with the mess created. Robert stepped in front of me, out of his hiding place behind Sam.
Robert yanked the girl's arm, trying to get her to move along. “I will see myself off.” She shook off his muscular hand and stomped off in a hurry. While I inspected the scene a woman tapped her on the shoulder and let passengers in front of herself.
I began to check tickets once again and tried to ignore what had just happened. “I saw a group of Chinese men enter the ship early this morning,” An American accent had caught my attention, reminding me of Joseph. I glanced up into the crowd to see a woman with gorgeous amber eyes that complemented her outfit. She was speaking to the young Chinese girl. “Perhaps you can check if your brother was one of them.” She continued to speak while I laughed under my breath. Who would want to speak to such a fool?
While I resumed checking tickets after a little chuckle I heard the girl say ‘thank you’ while she wandered off into the crowd of hats, parasols, and childrens screams. The amber eyed woman soon came to the front of the line, she held a dior suitcase and wore baby pink gloves, matching her dress.
“Good day, sir.” Her red lipstick popped while she smiled at me. She handed me her boarding pass and I placed my hand out for her bags. “I can carry it myself.” Her brow furrowed while she shifted her bags away from me. “Women aren’t delicate little creatures, y’know.”
“I’m terribly sorry ma’am. Most people prefer it.” I take a step back, giving her the ticket back, which she snatched.
“Good day!” She clacked away in her heels, her fur coat pushed into other passengers as she did so. I continued on checking tickets, a bit disappointed by the way the woman had acted, I was just being a decent person.
“Next!” I shouted out to see a man with a suit, his wife, and two little kids who looked around Clara’s age.
“Good-day sir,” I smiled at him while reaching for a sticker sheet, peeling two off, I gave them to the small children.
While the man handed me his ticket, and lots of bags, I heard a woman shout. “Stay away from that one. I heard they eat dogs.” I assumed they meant the young Chinese girl, Valora Luck, who would have been a pleasure if she was not such a hot-head. Mumbles erupted from the crowd. A male voice started to defend her while another American woman started to shout back. I glanced back at Robert who was now on his toes, ready for action. I nodded to Robert as he tramped down the runway.
As if it was not already loud enough, shrieks soon echoed through the crowd. Looking up to see all the commotion, I also let out a little scream when the Chinese girl was swinging underneath one of the cars that carried cargo. I stared for a moment, shocked at what she would do next. She threw herself onto a crane that was placing things. Her mouth moved up and down while the man who maneuvered the crane sat there in shock.
Realizing she was not going to be leaving the boat anytime soon I decided to do something. I roped off my gangway, dropped the luggage, and asked “Sam, could you take care of my line when you're done?” I shouted as I went down the hall to find my rejected passenger. I had started this problem by not making sure she was gone earlier, now I would fix it.
I bumped into passer-byers as I sprinted down the passageway. “Curse you!” A woman yelled while I left her in the dust. Another person tried to push me back when I had accidentally made them drop a small dog. Ignoring the yells and hollars forwarded towards me, I quickly galloped up the stairs, passing e-deck and all the way to b-deck, otherwise known as the Bridge Deck. I hoped to scope out the juvenile girl on the top of the boat, giving me vantage points, but I was unfortunate enough to not be able to find her. I panted heavily as I wandered through the top of the boat, as I had not been here before. The view was basic and boring but the olive colored trees made the sight at least 10 times better.
I stepped into the dining hall while passengers were now being seated for brunch. We were set to leave in 1 ½ hours, the Chinese girl had set us back a bit as her appearance made its way around. I stepped into the back where all the chefs were busy preparing bacon, eggs, sandwiches, and much more. I saw Joseph to the side frosting pastries which must have been what he had had earlier on. I turned on the sink and reached for a cup, I filled the glass to the brim and gulped down the tap water, I have had nothing to drink since my great run and was feeling awfully parched. I set the cup down and started to trot out of the kitchen, back to my gangway.
When I reached the entrance to the boat I felt a knot in my stomach to see my boss, Richard Smith, and an angry woman pointing at me.
“Hello Mull.” Richard addressed me by my last name as the woman clutched the small dog in furry. Richard's face seemed like stone as he stared at me down, disappointed.
“That's the man! He pushed me and my little Fefe!” The woman snapped as she started to ramble on about how I could have done her or her dog so much harm. Richard raised his hand to calm the woman as people walked by us as they went along the entryway. I glanced to my gangway, which was now occupied by Robert, greeting passengers.
“Ms. Ruse, calm down. We have this matter under control.” He lowered his arm, hanging it by his side. “We are going to have a little chat outside of this boat.” His back now faced me as he spoke to Ms. Ruse, still shaken by my ‘harm’ done to her. While they spoke among themselves I twiddled my thumbs, nervous as to why I was in trouble. Was it because I ran into others? Left my gangway? Or something completely unrelated to either of those options and I have no idea about it?! Shifting out of my daydreams I finally noticed that Ms. Ruse was long gone, however, Richard still looked at me very uncomfortable. “Explain.” Is all he said, so that's what I did.
“Look, Richard, I am terribly sorry for anything I may have done.” I looked up to Richard, trying to keep my cool. “I had noticed a young Chinese girl had snuck onto the ship and I decided to go after her. I closed my gangway and asked Sam to watch it until I got back. I didn’t want a stowaway on the ship and knew you would be upset if there was, so I tried to find her. “
“So, I believe you did not end up finding her,” He bit his lip and started pacing back and forth, his gloved hands clenched one another. “You also single handedly pushed back the time the Titanic would now be setting sail!” His voice boomed. “I also forgot to mention that you put yourself into the securities job and ordered another person to take over yours! While, they had their own job to do as well. Goddammit Charles, you have really done it this time, people are also complaining about you charging into them, not even apologizing to make things worse.” I stood in front of Richard, feeling humiliated and belittled.
“I’m sorry Richard, it’s just, I just wanted to try and stop someone from sneaking on.” I stared down at my scuffed shoes, obvious that I was not as fortunate as Richard, who had brand new sparkling dress shoes.
“Do you know how many stowaways have probably gotten on this boat already!?” He raised his hands into the air, questioning my smarts. “Y’know what, it doesn’t matter anymore. Go get your things! You're fired!” He pointed towards the entrance of the ship while a tear quivered from my eye and onto my cheek.
“Please don’t do this, I need this, my family doesn't even know when we are getting another job opportunity!” A flood of tears started to shower from my eyes, I was no longer able to hold my emotions in.
I looked around, trying to figure out what I could do. I turned to Sam who was giving me a sympathetic look. When our eyes met he looked away, nervous and scared for our futures.
A handkerchief was placed into my hands by Richard, his face was now swallowed with regret and guilt for firing me. He placed his free hand onto my shoulder and smiled weakly at me. “Look, Charles, I get it.” He put his hand down and his other hand up. “I went from this to this.” He motioned his hands from going low to high. “And I did try hard, just like you were doing. But sometimes trying our best comes with consequences, even when we are trying to help others. I’m terribly sorry about your family, I am. That is how I grew up. So, I’ll give you your paycheck for this voyage anyways. Just go home and spend time with your family.” He pulled me into a hug while a small tear streamed down his face, reminded of his own unfortunate childhood.
Although I had been fired, I still had many opportunities looking for me, I was only 24 of course. I’m going to take Richard's advice and think about what might happen if I try my hardest, will I win in life or lose? This time it was a tie. I was given new opportunities but also rejected from old ones. That girl might be on the boat, but she is just seeking her opportunities, and her family, and I’m glad I wasn’t able to stop her from doing that.
“What do you mean, ‘for what!?” He laughed, “We are on the greatest ship in the world!” He exclaimed while I went over to the fridge for a hard boiled egg.
“Oh” I munched on the egg while trying to speak. “I guess, I’m going to miss my family though.” I gulped down the egg, realizing this was a great opportunity for me.
“Yea, I have a 9 and 7 year old at home. My wife passed so they are staying with my grandfather.” He said in a hushed tone, I assumed he met papa as that's what the british call their grandfather.
I looked down to my wrist watch, noticing it was now almost 8. “Oh goodness, I have to go prepare for the entrance. It’s almost time for the passengers to board!” I said in a jolly tune as I swerved around the corner.
“Bye Charles, good luck!” Joseph yelled through the door, noticing I was gone.
I took a woman's boarding pass as well as her luggage and handed it to the stewart. “Have a wonderful time on the RMS Titanic!” I said, shaking her hand with my gloved one. “Next!” I bent over to take a sip of water when I called for the next person.
“Afternoon, sir. I am Valora Luck.” Her delicate cold hand swiped over mine as she handed me the ticket. I glanced down to look at her ticket, making sure all the correct information layed on the paper.
When I straightened out my neck and looked up I noticed her inspecting my uniform, she seemed fairly interested in the company logo that laid upon my visor. A gold wreath, red flag, and white star.
“Destination?” I tried to keep the words minimal as there were many scrambled into a line behind her.
“New York, same as the rest.” She moved her face into a perplexed expression as if she had no idea what I had said.
“New York, huh.” I stared down at the paper in front of me, expecting more. “Documentation?” I realized what was missing from the clutter of items.
“You’re holding it right there, sir,” She sputtered out, her face beginning to turn a minimal shade of red while she shifted back and forth, embarrassed by her cluelessness.
I gave a glance to Sam, the officer running the line next to me. He held the passenger log in his hand while skimming through it to find her name. “Luck?” He finally peered up from the paper after what had seemed like minutes.
“Yes.” The girl flattened out her dress, reminding me of the way Clara would sometimes.
Shaking out of my daydreams of my daughter, I look back up to her, a stern face. “You’re Chinese, right?”
I already knew the answer but let her respond anyway. “Half of me.” She spoke quietly.
I began to prepare myself for lots of fighting and took a deep breath. “Then at least half of you need documentation.” I said and saw a defeated look form onto her face. “Ain’t you heard of the Chinese Exclusion Act? You can’t go to America without papers. That’s just how it is.” I said in a tough voice, making me seem serious enough.
She fiddled with her fingers, violent but also nervous. “Wh-what?” She finally mustered out. I could tell a million things were racing through her mind as she changed expressions by a second. “But my brother’s on this ship, too, with the members of the Atlantic Steam Company.” Here comes the argument. “They’re all Chinese. Did they get on?”
The sounds of tapping feet and groans started to fill the gangway as the girl tried to fight. “I don’t keep the third-class register. You’ll need to get off my gangway.” I said no more and just looked her fiercely in the eyes.
“B-but my lady will be expecting me.”
“Where is she?” I protested, trying to figure out some way to keep this line moving.
She looked up for a moment but then backed down towards me, “ Mrs. Sloane wanted me to board first to make sure her room was ready. “ It seemed as if she was reading off a memorized script, her movements seemed awfully unnatural.
“We had her trunk forwarded here a week ago. I must lay out her things.” She rushed for another excuse while I thought how it was strange that a rich person was unable to unpack their belongings.
I huffed and waved the ticket in my hand. “Well, you’re not getting on this ship without the proper documentation. I’ll keep this for when she boards.” Stuffing the flimsy paper into my pocket I shouted for the next person in line. However, she held her ground as the grumbles began to rise even higher.
“No, please! I must board! I must–” She pleaded with me when I interrupted her.
“Robert, escort this girl off.” I shouted now displeased with the mess created. Robert stepped in front of me, out of his hiding place behind Sam.
Robert yanked the girl's arm, trying to get her to move along. “I will see myself off.” She shook off his muscular hand and stomped off in a hurry. While I inspected the scene a woman tapped her on the shoulder and let passengers in front of herself.
I began to check tickets once again and tried to ignore what had just happened. “I saw a group of Chinese men enter the ship early this morning,” An American accent had caught my attention, reminding me of Joseph. I glanced up into the crowd to see a woman with gorgeous amber eyes that complemented her outfit. She was speaking to the young Chinese girl. “Perhaps you can check if your brother was one of them.” She continued to speak while I laughed under my breath. Who would want to speak to such a fool?
While I resumed checking tickets after a little chuckle I heard the girl say ‘thank you’ while she wandered off into the crowd of hats, parasols, and childrens screams. The amber eyed woman soon came to the front of the line, she held a dior suitcase and wore baby pink gloves, matching her dress.
“Good day, sir.” Her red lipstick popped while she smiled at me. She handed me her boarding pass and I placed my hand out for her bags. “I can carry it myself.” Her brow furrowed while she shifted her bags away from me. “Women aren’t delicate little creatures, y’know.”
“I’m terribly sorry ma’am. Most people prefer it.” I take a step back, giving her the ticket back, which she snatched.
“Good day!” She clacked away in her heels, her fur coat pushed into other passengers as she did so. I continued on checking tickets, a bit disappointed by the way the woman had acted, I was just being a decent person.
“Next!” I shouted out to see a man with a suit, his wife, and two little kids who looked around Clara’s age.
“Good-day sir,” I smiled at him while reaching for a sticker sheet, peeling two off, I gave them to the small children.
While the man handed me his ticket, and lots of bags, I heard a woman shout. “Stay away from that one. I heard they eat dogs.” I assumed they meant the young Chinese girl, Valora Luck, who would have been a pleasure if she was not such a hot-head. Mumbles erupted from the crowd. A male voice started to defend her while another American woman started to shout back. I glanced back at Robert who was now on his toes, ready for action. I nodded to Robert as he tramped down the runway.
As if it was not already loud enough, shrieks soon echoed through the crowd. Looking up to see all the commotion, I also let out a little scream when the Chinese girl was swinging underneath one of the cars that carried cargo. I stared for a moment, shocked at what she would do next. She threw herself onto a crane that was placing things. Her mouth moved up and down while the man who maneuvered the crane sat there in shock.
Realizing she was not going to be leaving the boat anytime soon I decided to do something. I roped off my gangway, dropped the luggage, and asked “Sam, could you take care of my line when you're done?” I shouted as I went down the hall to find my rejected passenger. I had started this problem by not making sure she was gone earlier, now I would fix it.
I bumped into passer-byers as I sprinted down the passageway. “Curse you!” A woman yelled while I left her in the dust. Another person tried to push me back when I had accidentally made them drop a small dog. Ignoring the yells and hollars forwarded towards me, I quickly galloped up the stairs, passing e-deck and all the way to b-deck, otherwise known as the Bridge Deck. I hoped to scope out the juvenile girl on the top of the boat, giving me vantage points, but I was unfortunate enough to not be able to find her. I panted heavily as I wandered through the top of the boat, as I had not been here before. The view was basic and boring but the olive colored trees made the sight at least 10 times better.
I stepped into the dining hall while passengers were now being seated for brunch. We were set to leave in 1 ½ hours, the Chinese girl had set us back a bit as her appearance made its way around. I stepped into the back where all the chefs were busy preparing bacon, eggs, sandwiches, and much more. I saw Joseph to the side frosting pastries which must have been what he had had earlier on. I turned on the sink and reached for a cup, I filled the glass to the brim and gulped down the tap water, I have had nothing to drink since my great run and was feeling awfully parched. I set the cup down and started to trot out of the kitchen, back to my gangway.
When I reached the entrance to the boat I felt a knot in my stomach to see my boss, Richard Smith, and an angry woman pointing at me.
“Hello Mull.” Richard addressed me by my last name as the woman clutched the small dog in furry. Richard's face seemed like stone as he stared at me down, disappointed.
“That's the man! He pushed me and my little Fefe!” The woman snapped as she started to ramble on about how I could have done her or her dog so much harm. Richard raised his hand to calm the woman as people walked by us as they went along the entryway. I glanced to my gangway, which was now occupied by Robert, greeting passengers.
“Ms. Ruse, calm down. We have this matter under control.” He lowered his arm, hanging it by his side. “We are going to have a little chat outside of this boat.” His back now faced me as he spoke to Ms. Ruse, still shaken by my ‘harm’ done to her. While they spoke among themselves I twiddled my thumbs, nervous as to why I was in trouble. Was it because I ran into others? Left my gangway? Or something completely unrelated to either of those options and I have no idea about it?! Shifting out of my daydreams I finally noticed that Ms. Ruse was long gone, however, Richard still looked at me very uncomfortable. “Explain.” Is all he said, so that's what I did.
“Look, Richard, I am terribly sorry for anything I may have done.” I looked up to Richard, trying to keep my cool. “I had noticed a young Chinese girl had snuck onto the ship and I decided to go after her. I closed my gangway and asked Sam to watch it until I got back. I didn’t want a stowaway on the ship and knew you would be upset if there was, so I tried to find her. “
“So, I believe you did not end up finding her,” He bit his lip and started pacing back and forth, his gloved hands clenched one another. “You also single handedly pushed back the time the Titanic would now be setting sail!” His voice boomed. “I also forgot to mention that you put yourself into the securities job and ordered another person to take over yours! While, they had their own job to do as well. Goddammit Charles, you have really done it this time, people are also complaining about you charging into them, not even apologizing to make things worse.” I stood in front of Richard, feeling humiliated and belittled.
“I’m sorry Richard, it’s just, I just wanted to try and stop someone from sneaking on.” I stared down at my scuffed shoes, obvious that I was not as fortunate as Richard, who had brand new sparkling dress shoes.
“Do you know how many stowaways have probably gotten on this boat already!?” He raised his hands into the air, questioning my smarts. “Y’know what, it doesn’t matter anymore. Go get your things! You're fired!” He pointed towards the entrance of the ship while a tear quivered from my eye and onto my cheek.
“Please don’t do this, I need this, my family doesn't even know when we are getting another job opportunity!” A flood of tears started to shower from my eyes, I was no longer able to hold my emotions in.
I looked around, trying to figure out what I could do. I turned to Sam who was giving me a sympathetic look. When our eyes met he looked away, nervous and scared for our futures.
A handkerchief was placed into my hands by Richard, his face was now swallowed with regret and guilt for firing me. He placed his free hand onto my shoulder and smiled weakly at me. “Look, Charles, I get it.” He put his hand down and his other hand up. “I went from this to this.” He motioned his hands from going low to high. “And I did try hard, just like you were doing. But sometimes trying our best comes with consequences, even when we are trying to help others. I’m terribly sorry about your family, I am. That is how I grew up. So, I’ll give you your paycheck for this voyage anyways. Just go home and spend time with your family.” He pulled me into a hug while a small tear streamed down his face, reminded of his own unfortunate childhood.
Although I had been fired, I still had many opportunities looking for me, I was only 24 of course. I’m going to take Richard's advice and think about what might happen if I try my hardest, will I win in life or lose? This time it was a tie. I was given new opportunities but also rejected from old ones. That girl might be on the boat, but she is just seeking her opportunities, and her family, and I’m glad I wasn’t able to stop her from doing that.
“Where is she?” I protested, trying to figure out some way to keep this line moving.
She looked up for a moment but then backed down towards me, “ Mrs. Sloane wanted me to board first to make sure her room was ready. “ It seemed as if she was reading off a memorized script, her movements seemed awfully unnatural.
“We had her trunk forwarded here a week ago. I must lay out her things.” She rushed for another excuse while I thought how it was strange that a rich person was unable to unpack their belongings.
I huffed and waved the ticket in my hand. “Well, you’re not getting on this ship without the proper documentation. I’ll keep this for when she boards.” Stuffing the flimsy paper into my pocket I shouted for the next person in line. However, she held her ground as the grumbles began to rise even higher.
“No, please! I must board! I must–” She pleaded with me when I interrupted her.
“Robert, escort this girl off.” I shouted now displeased with the mess created. Robert stepped in front of me, out of his hiding place behind Sam.
Robert yanked the girl's arm, trying to get her to move along. “I will see myself off.” She shook off his muscular hand and stomped off in a hurry. While I inspected the scene a woman tapped her on the shoulder and let passengers in front of herself.
I began to check tickets once again and tried to ignore what had just happened. “I saw a group of Chinese men enter the ship early this morning,” An American accent had caught my attention, reminding me of Joseph. I glanced up into the crowd to see a woman with gorgeous amber eyes that complemented her outfit. She was speaking to the young Chinese girl. “Perhaps you can check if your brother was one of them.” She continued to speak while I laughed under my breath. Who would want to speak to such a fool?
While I resumed checking tickets after a little chuckle I heard the girl say ‘thank you’ while she wandered off into the crowd of hats, parasols, and childrens screams. The amber eyed woman soon came to the front of the line, she held a dior suitcase and wore baby pink gloves, matching her dress.
“Good day, sir.” Her red lipstick popped while she smiled at me. She handed me her boarding pass and I placed my hand out for her bags. “I can carry it myself.” Her brow furrowed while she shifted her bags away from me. “Women aren’t delicate little creatures, y’know.”
“I’m terribly sorry ma’am. Most people prefer it.” I take a step back, giving her the ticket back, which she snatched.
“Good day!” She clacked away in her heels, her fur coat pushed into other passengers as she did so. I continued on checking tickets, a bit disappointed by the way the woman had acted, I was just being a decent person.
“Next!” I shouted out to see a man with a suit, his wife, and two little kids who looked around Clara’s age.
“Good-day sir,” I smiled at him while reaching for a sticker sheet, peeling two off, I gave them to the small children.
While the man handed me his ticket, and lots of bags, I heard a woman shout. “Stay away from that one. I heard they eat dogs.” I assumed they meant the young Chinese girl, Valora Luck, who would have been a pleasure if she was not such a hot-head. Mumbles erupted from the crowd. A male voice started to defend her while another American woman started to shout back. I glanced back at Robert who was now on his toes, ready for action. I nodded to Robert as he tramped down the runway.
As if it was not already loud enough, shrieks soon echoed through the crowd. Looking up to see all the commotion, I also let out a little scream when the Chinese girl was swinging underneath one of the cars that carried cargo. I stared for a moment, shocked at what she would do next. She threw herself onto a crane that was placing things. Her mouth moved up and down while the man who maneuvered the crane sat there in shock.
Realizing she was not going to be leaving the boat anytime soon I decided to do something. I roped off my gangway, dropped the luggage, and asked “Sam, could you take care of my line when you're done?” I shouted as I went down the hall to find my rejected passenger. I had started this problem by not making sure she was gone earlier, now I would fix it.
I bumped into passer-byers as I sprinted down the passageway. “Curse you!” A woman yelled while I left her in the dust. Another person tried to push me back when I had accidentally made them drop a small dog. Ignoring the yells and hollars forwarded towards me, I quickly galloped up the stairs, passing e-deck and all the way to b-deck, otherwise known as the Bridge Deck. I hoped to scope out the juvenile girl on the top of the boat, giving me vantage points, but I was unfortunate enough to not be able to find her. I panted heavily as I wandered through the top of the boat, as I had not been here before. The view was basic and boring but the olive colored trees made the sight at least 10 times better.
I stepped into the dining hall while passengers were now being seated for brunch. We were set to leave in 1 ½ hours, the Chinese girl had set us back a bit as her appearance made its way around. I stepped into the back where all the chefs were busy preparing bacon, eggs, sandwiches, and much more. I saw Joseph to the side frosting pastries which must have been what he had had earlier on. I turned on the sink and reached for a cup, I filled the glass to the brim and gulped down the tap water, I have had nothing to drink since my great run and was feeling awfully parched. I set the cup down and started to trot out of the kitchen, back to my gangway.
When I reached the entrance to the boat I felt a knot in my stomach to see my boss, Richard Smith, and an angry woman pointing at me.
“Hello Mull.” Richard addressed me by my last name as the woman clutched the small dog in furry. Richard's face seemed like stone as he stared at me down, disappointed.
“That's the man! He pushed me and my little Fefe!” The woman snapped as she started to ramble on about how I could have done her or her dog so much harm. Richard raised his hand to calm the woman as people walked by us as they went along the entryway. I glanced to my gangway, which was now occupied by Robert, greeting passengers.
“Ms. Ruse, calm down. We have this matter under control.” He lowered his arm, hanging it by his side. “We are going to have a little chat outside of this boat.” His back now faced me as he spoke to Ms. Ruse, still shaken by my ‘harm’ done to her. While they spoke among themselves I twiddled my thumbs, nervous as to why I was in trouble. Was it because I ran into others? Left my gangway? Or something completely unrelated to either of those options and I have no idea about it?! Shifting out of my daydreams I finally noticed that Ms. Ruse was long gone, however, Richard still looked at me very uncomfortable. “Explain.” Is all he said, so that's what I did.
“Look, Richard, I am terribly sorry for anything I may have done.” I looked up to Richard, trying to keep my cool. “I had noticed a young Chinese girl had snuck onto the ship and I decided to go after her. I closed my gangway and asked Sam to watch it until I got back. I didn’t want a stowaway on the ship and knew you would be upset if there was, so I tried to find her. “
“So, I believe you did not end up finding her,” He bit his lip and started pacing back and forth, his gloved hands clenched one another. “You also single handedly pushed back the time the Titanic would now be setting sail!” His voice boomed. “I also forgot to mention that you put yourself into the securities job and ordered another person to take over yours! While, they had their own job to do as well. Goddammit Charles, you have really done it this time, people are also complaining about you charging into them, not even apologizing to make things worse.” I stood in front of Richard, feeling humiliated and belittled.
“I’m sorry Richard, it’s just, I just wanted to try and stop someone from sneaking on.” I stared down at my scuffed shoes, obvious that I was not as fortunate as Richard, who had brand new sparkling dress shoes.
“Do you know how many stowaways have probably gotten on this boat already!?” He raised his hands into the air, questioning my smarts. “Y’know what, it doesn’t matter anymore. Go get your things! You're fired!” He pointed towards the entrance of the ship while a tear quivered from my eye and onto my cheek.
“Please don’t do this, I need this, my family doesn't even know when we are getting another job opportunity!” A flood of tears started to shower from my eyes, I was no longer able to hold my emotions in.
I looked around, trying to figure out what I could do. I turned to Sam who was giving me a sympathetic look. When our eyes met he looked away, nervous and scared for our futures.
A handkerchief was placed into my hands by Richard, his face was now swallowed with regret and guilt for firing me. He placed his free hand onto my shoulder and smiled weakly at me. “Look, Charles, I get it.” He put his hand down and his other hand up. “I went from this to this.” He motioned his hands from going low to high. “And I did try hard, just like you were doing. But sometimes trying our best comes with consequences, even when we are trying to help others. I’m terribly sorry about your family, I am. That is how I grew up. So, I’ll give you your paycheck for this voyage anyways. Just go home and spend time with your family.” He pulled me into a hug while a small tear streamed down his face, reminded of his own unfortunate childhood.
Although I had been fired, I still had many opportunities looking for me, I was only 24 of course. I’m going to take Richard's advice and think about what might happen if I try my hardest, will I win in life or lose? This time it was a tie. I was given new opportunities but also rejected from old ones. That girl might be on the boat, but she is just seeking her opportunities, and her family, and I’m glad I wasn’t able to stop her from doing that.
to not be able to find her. I panted heavily as I wandered through the top of the boat, as I had not been here before. The view was basic and boring but the olive colored trees made the sight at least 10 times better.
I stepped into the dining hall while passengers were now being seated for brunch. We were set to leave in 1 ½ hours, the Chinese girl had set us back a bit as her appearance made its way around. I stepped into the back where all the chefs were busy preparing bacon, eggs, sandwiches, and much more. I saw Joseph to the side frosting pastries which must have been what he had had earlier on. I turned on the sink and reached for a cup, I filled the glass to the brim and gulped down the tap water, I have had nothing to drink since my great run and was feeling awfully parched. I set the cup down and started to trot out of the kitchen, back to my gangway.
When I reached the entrance to the boat I felt a knot in my stomach to see my boss, Richard Smith, and an angry woman pointing at me.
“Hello Mull.” Richard addressed me by my last name as the woman clutched the small dog in furry. Richard's face seemed like stone as he stared at me down, disappointed.
“That's the man! He pushed me and my little Fefe!” The woman snapped as she started to ramble on about how I could have done her or her dog so much harm. Richard raised his hand to calm the woman as people walked by us as they went along the entryway. I glanced to my gangway, which was now occupied by Robert, greeting passengers.
“Ms. Ruse, calm down. We have this matter under control.” He lowered his arm, hanging it by his side. “We are going to have a little chat outside of this boat.” His back now faced me as he spoke to Ms. Ruse, still shaken by my ‘harm’ done to her. While they spoke among themselves I twiddled my thumbs, nervous as to why I was in trouble. Was it because I ran into others? Left my gangway? Or something completely unrelated to either of those options and I have no idea about it?! Shifting out of my daydreams I finally noticed that Ms. Ruse was long gone, however, Richard still looked at me very uncomfortable. “Explain.” Is all he said, so that's what I did.
“Look, Richard, I am terribly sorry for anything I may have done.” I looked up to Richard, trying to keep my cool. “I had noticed a young Chinese girl had snuck onto the ship and I decided to go after her. I closed my gangway and asked Sam to watch it until I got back. I didn’t want a stowaway on the ship and knew you would be upset if there was, so I tried to find her. “
“So, I believe you did not end up finding her,” He bit his lip and started pacing back and forth, his gloved hands clenched one another. “You also single handedly pushed back the time the Titanic would now be setting sail!” His voice boomed. “I also forgot to mention that you put yourself into the securities job and ordered another person to take over yours! While, they had their own job to do as well. Goddammit Charles, you have really done it this time, people are also complaining about you charging into them, not even apologizing to make things worse.” I stood in front of Richard, feeling humiliated and belittled.
“I’m sorry Richard, it’s just, I just wanted to try and stop someone from sneaking on.” I stared down at my scuffed shoes, obvious that I was not as fortunate as Richard, who had brand new sparkling dress shoes.
“Do you know how many stowaways have probably gotten on this boat already!?” He raised his hands into the air, questioning my smarts. “Y’know what, it doesn’t matter anymore. Go get your things! You're fired!” He pointed towards the entrance of the ship while a tear quivered from my eye and onto my cheek.
“Please don’t do this, I need this, my family doesn't even know when we are getting another job opportunity!” A flood of tears started to shower from my eyes, I was no longer able to hold my emotions in.
I looked around, trying to figure out what I could do. I turned to Sam who was giving me a sympathetic look. When our eyes met he looked away, nervous and scared for our futures.
A handkerchief was placed into my hands by Richard, his face was now swallowed with regret and guilt for firing me. He placed his free hand onto my shoulder and smiled weakly at me. “Look, Charles, I get it.” He put his hand down and his other hand up. “I went from this to this.” He motioned his hands from going low to high. “And I did try hard, just like you were doing. But sometimes trying our best comes with consequences, even when we are trying to help others. I’m terribly sorry about your family, I am. That is how I grew up. So, I’ll give you your paycheck for this voyage anyways. Just go home and spend time with your family.” He pulled me into a hug while a small tear streamed down his face, reminded of his own unfortunate childhood.
Although I had been fired, I still had many opportunities looking for me, I was only 24 of course. I’m going to take Richard's advice and think about what might happen if I try my hardest, will I win in life or lose? This time it was a tie. I was given new opportunities but also rejected from old ones. That girl might be on the boat, but she is just seeking her opportunities, and her family, and I’m glad I wasn’t able to stop her from doing that.
into a hug while a small tear streamed down his face, reminded of his own unfortunate childhood.
Although I had been fired, I still had many opportunities looking for me, I was only 24 of course. I’m going to take Richard's advice and think about what might happen if I try my hardest, will I win in life or lose? This time it was a tie. I was given new opportunities but also rejected from old ones. That girl might be on the boat, but she is just seeking her opportunities, and her family, and I’m glad I wasn’t able to stop her from doing that.
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Congress passes the Chinese Exclusion Act and President Chester A. Arthur signs it.
San Francisco Call reports plan to “flood” U.S. with Chinese workers via Mexican border.
May 1882
November 26,
1901
The Chinese Exclusion Act
April 30, 1882
William Jennings Bryan supports Chinese Exclusion law extension.
Chinese immigrants in Canada poised to cross U.S. border when Exclusion Act expires.
December 6, 1901
Timeline: guides.loc .duv
Hawaiian sugar planters “grievously” violate Exclusion law.
September 1899
Senate passes bill continuing Chinese Exclusion laws, extending Geary Act to 1904.
The Chinese Exclusion Act was approved on May 6, 1882. It was the first significant law restricting immigration into the United States.
In the spring of 1882, the Chinese Exclusion Act was passed by Congress and signed by President Chester A. Arthur. This act provided an absolute 10-year ban on Chinese laborers immigrating to the United States. - Arcives.gov
The Chinese Exclsuon Act
April 16, 1902
November 21-23,
1901
Chinese Exclusion Convention “demands” re-enactment of Exclusion Law
to protect labor.
Widespread debate over effect of Exclusion Act on U.S. economy and possible omission of certain “classes” from the law.
1905-1907
“You’re Chinese, right?”
“Half of me.” Mum married Ba against the whishes of her father, a vicar in the local parish.
“Then at least half of you needs documentation. Aint you heard of the Chinese Exclusion Act? You can’t go to America without the papers. That’s just how it is.”
Valora's perspective
Seeing Valora's perspective of what she went through, we can see the hardships that Chinese had faced in the early 1900s. She is just an example of all the unfair treatment Chinese were given all over America. (and out)
Philippine Attorney General maintains Exclusion laws not applicable to Philippines.
March 1909
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The
Characters
Valora Luck
Valora and Jamie are twins. She went aboard the tianic to find her twin after her mistress died.
Wink
Wink is Jamie's crewmate who also works for Atlantic Steam Company. He met Valora and wanted to help her with a gamble that Valora and her brother were doing.
James Luck
Olly
Jamie and Valora are twins. He went on a trip aboard the Titanic with his company, Atlantic Steam Company.
3rd class passangers aboard the Titanic
List of 3rd class passangers
- Valora Luck
- James Luck
- Chow "Bo" Wah
- Wink
- Olly
- Drummer
- Ming Lai
- Fong
- Tao
- Health Bledig
- Dina Domenic and Mr. and Mrs. Domenic
All the characters who interact with one another help change the story. Sometimes the change is small, other times the change is big. When Valora has a quatermaster in her presence things are changed in the story.
"A voice grinds from behind me: 'Hold you hard!' Its the QM from the docking bridge, with a stare loud enough to drown out the applause." This shows her second encounter with QM and how she reacted to him.
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The
Titanic
Graph from: gattonimath.com
Luck of the Titanic
As we know in the book, Valora and Jamie are third class passangers, along with many of the other reoccuring characters in the book. Luckly in the end, the twins end up surviving the catastrophe although they are in third class.
Real Life
Many believe the third class passangers were treated unfairly aboard the Titanic because of their low wealth. Although some don't believe this, it could be very noticible if this was true when looking at survival rates. In the book however, Jamies and Valora are lucky and are able to be one of the few surviving 3rd class passangers.
Covering the sinkage
On April 15, 1912, the Titanic struck a iceburg in the early hours of the day, as a result of the collision, the boat began to sink and went down with nearly half of its passengers still aboard. Sadly, more than half of the passangers died that night while very few made a recovery aboard a smaller ship, the RMS Carpathia. According to the website History.com "“According to some hypotheses, Titanic was doomed from the start by a design that many lauded as state-of-the-art. The Olympic-class ships featured a double bottom and 15 watertight bulkhead compartments equipped with electric watertight doors that could be operated individually or simultaneously by a switch on the bridge."Although this does not uncover to much information about the sinkage, there is information given about why the Titanics design was faulty.
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The Chinese Exclusion Act P. 2
Luck of the Titanic
Chinese Exclusion Act
Valora's experience of trying to enter the Titanic is just an example of the countless of ways Chinese had been affected by the Chinese Exclusion Act. "You're Chinese,
right?" "Half of me." Mum married Ba against the wishes of her father, a vicar in the local parish. "Then at least half of you needs documentation. Ain't you head of the Chinese Exclusion Act? You can't go to America without papers. That's just how it is." This is a scene in the book when Valora experiences racism because of the way she looks, although we now know this is wrong, it does not change the past and how people were effected negitivley by it.
Comparing
In the story Valora is a Chinese girl who is voyaging on the Titanic while trying to hide her face from others. A true story about six Chinese survivors from the Titanic is on the left. This imparticular part is about a mans family tryng to figure out what had happened to him. These two stories could sort of relate if Valora had never made it aboard the Titanic, maybe she wouldn't know what had happened to her brother and where he was.
"In Fong’s family, no one really knew that he had survived the Titanic. His son, Tom Fong, heard the story from a family friend. Even then, he only knew that his father was involved in a shipwreck and was saved by a door plank, but he never made the connection between his father and the Titanic tragedy. Years later, Tom Fong’s cousin later briefly mentioned that Wing Sun Fong was on the Titanic, which led Tom Fong to investigate the incident. During his research, he found out his father had changed his name." - website independent-magazine.org
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Authors Craft
Use of Characterization:
The author uses characterization to show how racism affected many Chinese teens and young adults in the early 1900s. For example, as Val is escorted off the ship many stared at her disgusted by the way she looks, a woman even shouted “Stay away from that one. I’ve heard they eat dogs.” This helps prove how racism affected teens by showing that Valora is being criticized for a stereotype. Another example is when Valora is forced to hide her face behind a veil so she is not criticized for the way she looks. This explains how racism poorly affected teens as she was forced to cover up and hide herself. Lastly, on page 5, I noticed that Valora was being discriminated against because of an Act. “Ain’t you heard of the Chinese Exclusion Act? You can’t go to America without papers.” This line shows how racism affected Chinese teens because Valora was going to be seperated from her only family member forever because of a law that discriminated against Chinese. Overall, the different ways racism was shown truly shows how it affects Chinese teens poorly.
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