"Like my namesake Saint Margaret of Antioch, I am in the dragon's belly..."

Aboard the creaking ship Saint-André, young orphan Rita journeys across the stormy Atlantic with Mère Marguerite Bourgeoys and a group of pioneers bound for New France. It is 1659, and in the darkness of the hold, Rita is assigned to care for an unwanted baby—an infant whose cries stir unrest and whose family has been taken by plague.

When others see only a burden, Mère Bourgeoys sees a soul of great worth. As Rita cradles Baby through suffering, storms, and scorn, she begins to see not just a pearl, but a ruby—something rare, radiant, and beloved by God.

Based on real historical figures and events, Pearls and Rubies is a tender and emotionally powerful story of faith, sacrifice, and the quiet heroism of girls who care deeply in a world that often turns away.

Perfect for readers aged 8–12, this short story will resonate with fans of historical fiction, saints' lives, pioneer stories, and tales of quiet courage.