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51 pages 1 hour read

Under a Painted Sky

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Stacey Lee

Under a Painted Sky

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Frontier • 1840s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

730L

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Super Short Summary

Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee is a young adult historical novel about Samantha Young, who, after accidentally killing her attempted rapist and losing her father in a fire, flees westward disguised as a boy with Annamae, an enslaved teen seeking freedom. Together, they navigate dangers and form bonds with a group of cowboys while confronting issues of identity, gender roles, and racism during their journey on the Oregon Trail. The novel contains racist language and depictions of violent acts, including attempted rape and murder.

Adventurous

Emotional

Inspirational

Romantic

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

12,187 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stacey Lee's Under a Painted Sky is praised for its engaging depiction of friendship and resilience against the backdrop of the 1849 Gold Rush. Reviewers commend its diverse characters and historical accuracy, but some note a predictable plot and inconsistent pacing. Overall, it's celebrated for strong themes of empowerment and identity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Under a Painted Sky?

A reader who enjoys Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee is likely captivated by historical fiction featuring strong, diverse female characters and themes of friendship and survival. Fans of Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein and Outrun the Moon by Stacey Lee will find similar enjoyment in this compelling, adventurous tale.

4.2

12,187 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Frontier • 1840s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

730L

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