Written by Matilda Woods
In the village of a thousand ships a fortune teller’s prediction will change a girl’s life. Oona was meant to be a boy according to the famous fortune teller who visited her village ten years ago. Unwanted and unloved by every member of her family, Oona looks forward to her birthday where she receives a birthday gift from an anonymous person. Before her eleven birthday Oona is informed by her father that she and her sisters are traveling South to find husbands. Oona knows that her mother will marry her off to anyone and decides it is time to go on an adventure. Aboard her father’s ship, The Plucky Leopard, Oona travels North to catch a whale for her village and a glimpse of the mythical Nardoo. She faces opposition at every turn but also a chance to make friends for life: the sea cat and the old navigator.
Matilda Woods has the gift of words and takes you on a mythical adventure often found in classic fairytales. She can weave three story arcs together while maintaining the flow of the story. The pacing is good, and every element added is significant. I loved her book The Boy, the Bird, and the Coffin Maker and this next book is a winner.Reviewed by LeeAnne Grover, Media Clerk, Hillside Elementary
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4-7
Author Website: http://www.matildawoods.com/
The Girl who Sailed the Stars
Written by Matilda Woods
Philomel Books
260 pages
Release Date: June 25, 2019
ISBN: 9780525515241
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
