'Florence Wallace's bold spirit is as unshakable in her journey of connection as the growing faith that leads her to a greater understanding of herself, her family, and her community throughout a tumultuous chapter of American history. Wholly victorious.' * Rita Williams-Garcia, New York Times bestselling author of One Crazy Summer, Clayton Byrd Goes Underground, A Sitting in St. James, and the Gaither Sisters Trilogy * 'Florence's voice is unflinchingly direct and genuine in her grief and anger, contrasting with the daily accounts of life in the 1860s, which bring to mind the cozy historical feel of the American Girl books of the early '90s (Addy forever!). 'The conflict between the Irish American and Black New Yorkers that boiled into the New York City Draft Riots of 1863 is a little-known piece of American history that will fascinate readers. This rich historical offering may inspire readers to find out more about their own family's untold histories, and the author's well-documented historical note includes sources for further reading.' * Tanita S. Davis, author of thirteen books for tweens and young adults, including the NAACP Image Awardnominated and Coretta Scott King Awardwinning novel, Mare's War * 'I was swept into The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace from the first paragraph and read the entire story in one sitting! Kirstie sensitively depicts young Florence's journey through grief as she ultimately blossoms in an unexpected place. This book will be a welcome resource for teachers and an engaging read-aloud for families. Young readers will be intrigued as history comes alive before their eyes, and the life lessons in these pages will simmer in their hearts for years to come.' * Dorena Williamson, bridge builder and bestselling author of Every Breath, Every Blessing and The Story of Juneteenth * 'Kirstie Myvett has written a novel that is both unflinching and tender. Middle-grade readers will meet Florence Wallace and go on an epic journey to discover how one can overcome tragedy with courage, tenacity, and faith.' * Alice Faye Duncan, author of The Dream Builders Blueprint, Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free, and Yellow Dog Blues * 'Kirstie Myvett's The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace brings to light an overlooked chapter of American history through a heroine readers won't forget--resilient, brilliant, and armed with dreams no circumstance can dim. This powerful story does more than inspire young readers to believe in themselves; it teaches them the courage required to become sanctuaries of belonging for those who need it most.' * William Seraile, PhD, author of Angels of Mercy: White Women and the History of New Yorks Colored Orphan Asylum * 'Young readers will be swept away by the adventures of Florence Wallace and the grit, gumption, and heart of this beautifully written story.' * Vanessa Miller, author of The Filling Station and The American Queen * An emotional tribute to the forgotten voices from our past and the healing power of community, family, and love. * Lesa Cline-Ransome, award-winning author of Before She Was Harriett, Finding Langston, and many other books * Kirstie creatively portrays a rarely shared perspective of the Civil War through the eyes, ears, and heart of preteen Florence. Florence then draws you into the sights, smells, sounds, and emotions of being a girl living in the orphanage before and after the New York Draft riots. Four Seasons does exactly what historical fiction should do: expose, teach, engage, encourage, provoke, challenge, inspire, and entertain. I highly recommend! * Kimberly Gillespie, educator, writer, and speaker *
