Blue Roses

Description:

A modern-day Native American girl learns to understand the cycle of life after her grandfather dies.

Brief description:

Linda Boyden is of Cherokee and French Canadian ancestry. She is an enrolled member of the United Lumbee Nation. In addition to writing, Boyden works with elementary school children on writing projects and performs as a storyteller specializing in American Indian myths. The Blue Roses is based on a dream she had after her own grandfather died. A native of Massachusetts, Boyden now lives in Pukalani, Hawaii, with her husband. This is her first book. Visit her online at lindaboyden.com.

Review Quotes:

"This fine debut is a heartwarming story about a special bond a young Native American girl shares with her grandfather... Youngsters who have lost a loved one or who share a special relationship with an older adult will relate to this touching story, which clearly shows what healthy grieving is like." -- Booklist

"What sets Boyden's work apart is her depiction of contemporary Native American culture, with Rosalie's family living in a small-town community. Their everyday life and loss connect them to universal experiences of growth and death that cross cultures. Cordova's paintings have static quality that reinforces the reflective tone of the text. . . the book would be suitable for one-on-one sharing with children who are mourning a grandparent or other relative." -- School Library Journal

"A gentle story of family ties, loss and dreams." -- Kirkus Reviews