Under a Painted Sky

Under a Painted Sky, a historical fiction novel by Stacey Lee, is set in 1849 and follows the story of Samantha Young, a Chinese-American girl, and Annamae, a runaway slave. After a tragic fire kills Samantha's father, she finds herself falsely accused of murder. The two girls meet and, disguised as boys for safety, they embark on a perilous journey along the Oregon Trail. Seeking freedom and a fresh start, they encounter diverse travelers, face the harsh realities of the American frontier, and forge a deep bond of friendship. Along the way, they are guided by the stars and their dreams of a better life, confronting issues of race, gender, and survival against the backdrop of the Gold Rush era.