A fast-paced, sensitively written first novel about the psychological damage war wreaks, seen through the eyes of an intelligent, resilient young girl. During WWII, as Japanese forces invade her native city of Ubec in the Philippines, nine-year-old Yvonne Macaraig escapes with her father and mother into the mountains, where they stay in villages whose inhabitants are fighting the Japanese … The author, herself born in the Philippines, skillfully interweaves realistic events with myths of women fighters and goddesses, as well as fantastic dreams … Brainard’s appealing characters are larger-than-life people who change before our eyes, yet remain utterly convincing.
— Kirkus Review

A beautifully written novel in which the words flow smoothly across the pages, weaving a story that is half lyrical and half brutal reality. Enchanting throughout, this novel will mesmerize the reader right up until its victorious ending.
— Booklist