The title character is an orphan whose background is a mystery to those who take her in. The beautiful little girl grows up through her many adventures in the old city of New Orleans such as seeing a Boeuf Gras walking through the streets of New Orleans on Lundi Gras (the day before Mardi Gras). Janeï 1/2s unique childhood experiences give readers a wonderful look at real places and events of days gone by.