Kansas Territory in 1855 is a difficult place to settle, particularly for a 13-year-old poet like Lucy Thomkins. Between the proslavery Border Ruffians and Insiders like her father who are determined to make Kansas a free state, it's hard to be heard, no matter your age.


“Authenticity supported by her previous juvenile nonfiction works, McArthur has created a believable and fast-paced tale of life in the Kansas Territory.” - Kirkus Reviews (February 15, 2012)