Under a Painted Sky [Paperback]

From the author ofOutrun the Moon, Stacey Lee's debut novel is a powerful story about love, friendship, and sacrifice. Perfect for fans of Code Name Verity. 

“This moving novel will captivate you.”—Buzzfeed.com  

All Samantha wanted was to move back to New York and pursue her music, which was difficult enough being a Chinese girl in Missouri, 1849. Then her fate takes a turn for the worse after a tragic accident leaves her with nothing and she breaks the law in self-defense. With help from Annamae, a runaway slave she met at the scene of her crime, the two flee town for the unknown frontier.
    But life on the Oregon Trail is unsafe for two girls. Disguised as Sammy and Andy, two boys heading for the California gold rush, each search for a link to their past and struggle to avoid any unwanted attention. Until they merge paths with a band of cowboys turned allies, and Samantha can’t stop herself from falling for one. But the law is closing in on them and new setbacks come each day, and the girls will quickly learn there are not many places one can hide on the open trail.         

Winner of the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award 
An ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults Pick
An Amelia Bloomer Book 

Winner of the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award 
An ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults Pick
An Amelia Bloomer Book 


“Debut author Stacey Lee successfully rides onto the range with this sweeping, warmhearted tale.”—TheChicago Tribune
 
“A much needed multicultural look at the Oregon Trail, with resourceful, smart, and brave Chinese American and African American girls as main characters. High drama, tension, romantic longings, and touches of humor will entice historical fiction fans.”—School Library Journal