Words on Fire [Paperback]

Danger is never far from Audra's family farm in Lithuania. She always avoids the occupying Russian Cossack soldiers, who insist that everyone must become Russian -- they have banned Lithuanian books, religion, culture, and even the language. But Audra knows her parents are involved in something secret and perilous.

In June 1893, when Cossacks arrive abruptly at their door, Audra's parents insist that she flee, taking with her an important package and instructions for where to deliver it. But escape means abandoning her parents to a terrible fate.

As Audra embarks on a journey to deliver the mysterious package, she faces unimaginable risks, and soon she becomes caught up in a growing resistance movement. Can joining the underground network of book smugglers give Audra a chance to rescue her parents?

Praise forWords on Fire:

* Gripping... Audra's story deserves a place on the shelf next to Lois Lowry'sNumber the Starsand Marcus Zusak'sThe Book Thief. --Booklist, starred review

[This] adventure about a little-known place and time... delivers action and suspense. --Kirkus Reviews

There is much on offer in this novel: family love, patriotism, magic, and the importance of books... Highly recommended. --School Library Connection

Praise forResistance:

A Sydney Taylor Notable Book

The edge-of-your-seat climax places readers amidst the gritty, horrifying street battles of the Warsaw Ghetto and pays tribute to those who sacrificed themselves so others would live... Historical fiction at its finest, this informs, enlightens, and engages young readers. --School Library Journalƒ1