Description: This historical novel about a Black orphan girl grappling for a solid place in Civil War-era New York City will inspire tweens to dream big, rise above society's limitations, and find their way by being a place for others to belong. As Florence grapples with orphanage life and escapes the 1863 Draft Riots, she discovers unknown courage inside her.
Brief description:
Kirstie Myvett is the author of several books for children, including The Praline Lady (2020), What You Never Knew About Rihanna (2025), and The Moss Picker (2026). Kirstie's work has also appeared in Country Roads Magazine.
Kirstie is the co-founder of KidLit in Color, a blog that amplifies BIPOC and indigenous voices in the publishing industry. Kirstie believes that representation matters in all places and spaces, especially in the pages of books. When Kirstie isn't writing, she's spending time with her family in the unique city of New Orleans.
Review Quotes: 'Florence Wallace's bold spirit is as unshakable in her journey of connection as the growing faith that leads her to a greater understanding of herself, her family, and her community throughout a tumultuous chapter of American history. Wholly victorious.'--Rita Williams-Garcia, New York Times bestselling author of One Crazy Summer, Clayton Byrd Goes Underground, A Sitting in St. James, and the Gaither Sisters Trilogy