The Star That Always Stays by Anna Rose Johnson tells the tale of a young girl, Norvia, who grapples with changes. She moves from island life to town life in 1914 Michigan. Not the least of her issues is her mother’s request that she conceal the fact that she is half Native American.
Norvia’s mother is divorced and remarried, a rare thing in that age, and Norvia gets teased for it. Things aren’t easy for her at her new school. Her new blended family has some bumpy moments.
But there is a constant in her life, Bible verses from the adults in her life. With them, she learns to take comfort and be brave, step forward, do the best thing.
This debut author creates a gentle coming of age story that’s undergirded by faith. It’s a peek into a time in American history , and a detailed look at the assimilation challenges of Native Americans. In fact, the book is based on the true story of the author’s forebears.
Four stars.