Because she is the ninth child (and fourth girl) born her mother refuses to name her, thus her family simply calls her Pika or 'girl' in their language. Jessica Day George apparently studied Norwegian folklore as well as Norse and it adds a layer of authenticity. This is a retelling of the old fairy tale East of the Sun West of the Moon which is perhaps lesser known. (it's kinda like beauty and the beast or for you mythology buffs,Cupid and Psyche)It's a nice fairly light read, perfect to curl up with on a blustery day.