Blue Birds [Paperback]

Author of the critically acclaimed May B. returns with a stirring novel in verse.

Alis and her parents make the long journey from England to settle the New World. But it doesn't go as planned and Alis, her parents, and the others of their small community soon find themselves at odds with the Roanoke tribe. As tensions rise between the settlers and the Native peoples, twelve-year-old Alis forms an impossible friendship with a Roanoke named Kimi. Despite language barriers, the two become as close as sisters, risking their lives for one another until Alis makes a decision that will change her life forever.

“An excellent historical offering and belongs on public and school library shelves.”—VOYA

“With two compelling main characters and an abundance of rich historical detail, Rose’s latest novel offers much to discuss and much to appreciate.”—School Library Journal

Praise for Blue Birds:

“Composed in varying formats, the descriptive and finely crafted poems reveal the similarities the two girls share, from loved ones lost to hatred between the English and the Roanoke to a desire for peace… Fans of Karen Hesse and the author's May B. (2012) will delight in this offering.”—Kirkus Reviews 

“A memorable account of a friendship that transcends culture and prejudice.”—Publishers Weekly

“An excellent historical offering and belongs on public and school library shelves.”—VOYA

“With two compelling main characters and an abundance of rich historical detail, Rose’s latest novel offers much to discuss and much to appreciate.”—School Library Journal

“An imaginative historical novel with two sympathetic protagonists.”—Booklist