"Growing up on Beaver Island, Grand-père told Norvia storiesâstories about her ancestor Migizi, about Biboonke-o-nini the Wintermaker, about the Crane Clan and the Reindeer Clan. He sang her songs in the old language, and her grandmothers taught her to make story quilts and maple candy. On the island, Norvia was proud of her Ojibwe heritage. Things are different in the city. Here, Norviaâs mother forces her to pretend sheâs not Native at allâeven to Mr. Ward, Maâs new husband, and to Vernon, Norviaâs irritating new stepbrother. In fact, there are a lot of changes in the city: ten-cent movies, gleaming soda shops, speedy automobiles, ninth grade. Itâs dizzying for a girl who grew up on the forested shores of Lake Michigan. Despite the move and the looming threat of world war, Norvia and her siblingsâall five of themâare determined to make 1914 their best year ever. Norvia is certain that her future depends upon itâŚand upon her discretion. But how can she have the best year ever if she has to hide who she is? Sensitive, enthralling, and classic in sensibility (perfect for Anne of Green Gables fans), this coming-of-age story about an introspective and brilliant Native American heroine addresses assimilation, racism, and divorce, as well as everygirl problems like first crushes, making friends, and the joys and pains of a blended family. Often funny, often heartbreaking, The Star That Always Stays is a fresh, vivid story directly inspired by Anna Rose Johnsonâs family history."