The Girl Who Sailed the Stars

Adventure, friendship, and magical realism come together in this heartwarming, whimsical story. Perfect for fans of A Snicker of Magic and The Penderwicks.

When Oona Britt was born in the magical town of Nordlor, where all of the homes are built from wrecked ships, her parents never expected her to be a girl. Having listened to a faulty prediction from a washed-up soothsayer, they were promised a bold and brave son, so as the youngest of seven sisters, Oonas birth became a disappointment -- especially to her sea captain father, who doesnt believe theres a place for girls aboard ships.

But Oona is different from the rest of her family. She longs for adventure and knowledge. So she steals aboard her fathers ship just as hes about to set sail for his annual winter whale hunt, and suddenly finds herself in the midst of a grand adventure! The ship has its own sea cat, Barnacles, and a navigator named Haroyld, who show Oona how to follow the stars. But for all that, Oonas father is furious. Can she prove to him that shes worth his love and pride, even though shes not the bold and brave son he was promised?

This follow-up to The Boy, the Bird & the Coffin Maker carries just as much heart and charm as Matilda Woodss first novel. The characters, story, and illustrations will dazzle readers.

Praise for The Girl Who Sailed the Stars

* Woodss intoxicating mix of whimsical details and taut adventure will keep [readers] enrapt. --Booklist, starred review

A richly imaginative fantasy that brings to mind Joan Aikens Wolves Chronicles with a dash of Roald Dahl . . . Strong world-building joins lyrical prose and a fine leavening of humor, adventure, and magic, to make a winning combination. --SLJ

Praise for The Boy, the Bird & the Coffin Maker

* Woods has penned a gentle fable, one rich in hope that promotes the strength of kindness. Her magical realism nods to the like of Isabel Allende and Gabriel Garca Mrquez, perfectly tailoring the genre for a middle-grade audience. Anuska Allepuzs whimsical illustrations add to the magical feel. Sweet, earnest and not to be missed. --Shelf Awareness, starred review

* Elegantly told from start to finish and enhanced by Allepuzs evocative images and decorations, debut author Woods has created a fairy tale that will linger with readers. --Publishers Weekly, starred review

* This uplifting book will enthrall readers, enveloping them in its gentle charm. --Booklist, starred review