Following the death of their father during the English Civil War, four orphaned siblings must hide in the New Forest to escape the reach of Parliamentarian forces. The children, ranging from young Edward to his younger sisters, struggle to adapt to a life of rustic survival while maintaining their aristocratic dignity in a hostile political climate. They rely on the guidance of a local woodsman to learn the skills necessary to sustain themselves in the wild. The narrative follows their maturation as they navigate the dangers of the forest and the shifting loyalties of the war-torn countryside.

This work is widely regarded as a staple of 19th-century juvenile literature, noted for its blend of historical detail and adventure. The narrative is often praised for its instructional tone, which reflects the author's intent to educate young readers on self-reliance and character. Readers frequently highlight the vivid depiction of the New Forest as a central element that grounds the siblings' experiences. The book remains a significant example of how historical events were translated into moralizing fiction for younger audiences during the Victorian era.