They are in Burgundy, France, in 1799, fleeing yet another calamity caused by Anneline (who is prone to killing people accidentally). At dawn they find themselves in a town called Nevers, which is filled with eccentric characters, including a man who obsessively smells hands, another who dreams of becoming a chicken and a donkey that keeps the town awake at night, braying about his narrow life. As Odette establishes a home in an abandoned guardhouse, she makes a friend in the relaxed Nicois and finds work as a midwife's assistant. She and Nicois uncover a mystery that may lead to riches and, more important for Odette, a sense of belonging.
The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
Sara Cassidyâs childrenâs books include finalists for the Governor Generalâs Literary Award in Young Peopleâs Literature, Chocolate Lily Award, City of Victoria Childrenâs Book Prize, Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Childrenâs Book Award and the TD Canadian Childrenâs Literature Award. Her early novel Genius Jolene won a BC Book Prize. Her most recent book for young readers is Star Sailor, The Story of Words. She also writes for adults. Sara lives in Victoria, British Columbia, and visits France often.