Each day counting down to the announcement of the Minnesota Book Awards, we highlight one of the thirty-two finalists. Today we feature 2015 Young People’s Literature finalist Margi Preus.
Norwegian history, fiction and folklore in West of the Moon
West of the Moon by Margi Preus
Published by: Amulet Books/Abrams
Category sponsored by The Creative Writing Programs at Hamline University
Thirteen-year-old Astri and her younger sister, Greta, long to leave Norway and be reunited with their father in America. After a daring escape from a mean goat farmer, Astri retrieves her little sister, and, armed with a troll treasure, a book of spells and curses, and a possibly magic hairbrush, the two set off for America. In this exciting tale the two girls journey across the sea on an adventure that they hope will lead them to their father—but trouble along the way threatens to separate the sisters forever.
About the author:
Margi Preus is a New York Times best-selling author of books for young readers, including Shadow on the Mountain and Heart of a Samurai, winner of a Newbery Honor and the Asian/Pacific American Award for Children’s Literature.
The reviews are in:
“Norwegian history, fiction and folklore intertwine seamlessly in this lively, fantastical adventure and moving coming-of-age story.”
—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“Enthralling and unflinching, this historical tale resonates with mythical undertones that will linger with readers after the final page is turned.”
—School Library Journal, starred review
“Astri is like a girl out of a fairy tale, and the native folktales that Preus weaves through the narrative serve as guides, lessons, and inspiration for her.”
—Publishers Weekly, starred review
In the media:
Interview in Minneapolis Star Tribune
Join us at the Awards Gala!
Award winners will be announced at the 27th Annual Minnesota Book Awards Gala on Saturday, April 18 at the historic St. Paul Union Depot. The opening reception begins at 7 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50 and are available by visiting www.thefriends.org/gala.
Have you read West of the Moon? What are your thoughts? We welcome your comments!