Under a Painted Sky

Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee is a reprint edition published by Penguin on March 1, 2016. This young adult historical fiction novel unfolds in 1849 and follows Samantha, a Chinese girl in Missouri, whose life takes a dramatic turn after a tragic accident forces her to flee. Alongside Annamae, a runaway slave, they embark on a perilous journey along the Oregon Trail, disguising themselves as boys to evade the law and seek a new life.
Readers will find a narrative rich in themes of love, friendship, and sacrifice as Samantha and Annamae navigate the challenges of the frontier. The story explores their quest for identity and safety while encountering a band of cowboys who become unexpected allies. With a focus on the struggles faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander characters in a historical context, this novel offers a glimpse into the complexities of life in the 19th century United States. The book spans 384 pages and is presented in English, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Official synopsis Publisher
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Downstairs Girl, 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
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