Under a Shooting Star

Edward turned to follow the others as a cannon exploded. The powder charge was too great. Men fell to the deck screaming, but Edward could not hear them, for the blast had been deafening!

It is 1812 and Edward MacNeil's task is simple: escort Kate and Anne Kimmerling home to America, then travel to his uncle's cabin to wait out the war. But a vicious storm on Lake Erie leaves Edward and the girls shipwrecked on an island and caught in the midst of the conflict. Half British, half Oneida, Edward's loyalties are already divided, but his growing affection for an American makes his path even more unclear. As Edward finds his way, he comes to learn that courage, friendship, and love know no bounds.

For more of the MacNeils_ adventures, look for the first two books in the Circle of Silver Chronicles, A Circle of Silver and By the Standing Stone

Laura Hummel - Children's Literature

Young Edward MacNeil has promised to escort Kate and Anne Kimmerling home to America. During a raging storm on Lake Erie in 1812 they become shipwrecked on an island. Help comes in the form of Paukeesaa, the son of the Indian warrior, Tecumseth. He tells that America and England are once again at war and that his tribe is allied with the British. Although Edward is British and the girls are American, they are staunch friends and vow to remain together until the girls can safely reach their parents in Ohio. Eventually, they are sent to a British fort where Edward, who is a sailor and carpenter, helps build a warship. Life among soldiers is dangerous for the two Americans. So the small group of friends secretly set out by canoe. But they can not escape the war and find themselves caught in the bloody Battle of Lake Erie. Seeing a shooting star, Edward is reminded of the saying, "A soul will be going home to God." With great attention to historical accuracy, Trottier has captured events and people of the era. The story is exciting and will surely hold the attention of young readers. There are two earlier books in the "Circle of Silver Chronicles" series. 2001, Stoddart Kids,

A prolific writer and educator, Maxine Trottier makes history come alive in picture books and novels for young readers. Her award-winning titles include Claire's Gift, which won the Mr. Christie's Book Award, The Paint Box, and Prairie Willow. Born in Michigan, Maxine is a dual citizen of Canada and the U.S. and makes her home in Port Stanley, Ontario.