A supernatural historical mystery that sees Bone unravel the mysteries of her mother's death
Twelve-year-old Bone possesses a Gift that allows her to see the stories in everyday objects in this supernatural historical mystery. The first title in a series -- now in paperback!
In southern Virginia coal-mining town in 1942, Bone Phillips has just reached the age when most members of her family discover their Gift. Bone has a Gift that disturbs her; she can sense stories when she touches an object that was important to someone. She sees both sad and happy--the death of a deer in an arrowhead, the pain of a beating in a baseball cap, and the sense of joy in a fiddle. There are also stories woven into her dead mama's butter--yellow sweater--stories Bone yearns for and fears. When Bone receives a note that says her mama's Gift is what killed her, Bone tries to uncover the truth. Could Bone's Gift do the same? Here is a beautifully resonant coming-of-age tale about learning to trust the power of your own story.
“This mystical mystery…effectively evokes the Appalachian culture with written dialect and a cultural emphasis on storytelling that’ll snag even history-resistant readers. Readers will definitely invest in Bone’s journey. Bone’s Gift is just the opening installment of the Ghosts of Ordinary Objects trilogy.” –
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review“In a genuine voice that sucks readers into Appalachia during World War II, Smibert tells an absorbing coming-of-age story. The narrative has the feel of the Appalachian folktales that the protagonist loves so much, with a mix of realism and magic. Smibert weaves the folktales intricately into the story. Middle graders won’t want Bone’s story to end.” –
School Library Journal“Part fantasy, part mystery, and part history, Smibert’s Bone’s Gift will have broad appeal. The descriptive writing makes it easy to imagine living in a coal-mining town in WWII-era Virginia. It is clear that Smibert conducted thorough research to create a realistic setting. Fans of cozy mysteries and time travel will enjoy this book.”
-VOYA“This historical fiction story with supernatural elements is the first book in the Ghosts of Ordinary Objects trilogy. The accurate use of Southern Appalachian dialect…gives the book a charming authenticity. The author’s note at the end provides sources regarding the historical accuracy of the novel and the Appalachian folklore.” -
School Library Connection“Smibert surrounds Bone with a loving, complicated extended family….(with) language, which feels real and down-to-earth, like her characters. An intriguing blend of history and magic.” –
Kirkus Reviews
