Book Launch Day is here, along with our best wishes to Stephanie Morrill for the release of WITHIN THESE LINES, a Junior Library Guild GOLD STANDARD book, published by Harper Collins/Blink YA Books.
The dimensional characters in this timeless tale portray a time in US history when fear and hatred overshadow logic.
Taichi and Evalina thought that keeping their interracial relationship under wraps was difficult enough — but, when 1942 headlines of the San Francisco News announce “First Japanese Ready to Leave Coast,” and Taichi and his family are soon forced into containment at Manzanar Relocation Center, both families are exposed to something truly sinister — the degrading treatment of Japanese American citizens contained against their will.
Fueled by Taichi’s courage, determined Evalina faces down her own fears, risks her own family’s reputation, and becomes a voice who dares to educate the ignorant and expose the hypocrisy of those who are complicit in denying American citizens due process.
“Morrill produces a historical novel that blends devastating true events with lifelike fictional characters as it brings history to life.”
~ Booklist
“… the author’s extensive research helps to create a rich and engaging atmosphere that will transport readers.”
~ School Library Journal
“A well-plotted mystery with plenty of twists, turns, and red herrings.”
~ Publishers Weekly
“Precise in its history, intimate in detail, … sensitively written novel brings to life a shameful era of American injustice.”
~ Janet Taylor Lisle, ALA notable author and Newbery Honor author
“Within These Lines is a moving story of love, hope, and family set against the dark history of Japanese internment in America. This book had me captivated!”
~ Maureen McQuerry, YALSA award-winning author
Stephanie Morrill is the author of 1920’s mystery, The Lost Girl of Astor Street, and the author of several contemporary young adult series. Since 2010, Stephanie has been encouraging the next generation of writers at her website, GoTeenWriters.com. She lives in the Kansas City area, where she loves plotting big and small adventures to enjoy with her husband and three children.