51 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
384
Novel • Fiction
American Frontier • 1840s
2015
YA
12-18 years
730L
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
12,187 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
12,187 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Annamae “Andy”
A formerly enslaved girl who is determined, possesses practical skills, and joins Samantha in her journey, disguising herself as a boy for safety.
West Pepper
A cowboy from Texas, described as physically attractive and capable, who becomes a significant figure in the journey of Samantha and Annamae.
Cayenne “Cay” Pepper
West's cousin, known for his outgoing personality and womanizing, whose lighthearted nature provides comic relief but also reveals deeper themes.
Peety
A Mexican cowboy and the wrangler of the group, who adds a layer of historical context to the story through his heritage and language.
Isaac/Badge
Annamae's older brother, characterized by his optimism and connection to his sister, who appears on a “WANTED” poster under an alias.
Ian and Angus MacMartin
Scottish brothers who serve as antagonists, working as bounty hunters driven by a personal vendetta and financial motives.
384
Novel • Fiction
American Frontier • 1840s
2015
YA
12-18 years
730L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.