This book was published 1999 by Stoddart Publishing, Canada .

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 , The Paint Box , and Prairie Willow . Maxine's books have earned the Canadian Library Association's Book of the Year, the Mr. Christie's Book Award and twice the Ontario Woman Teacher's Federation Writing Award. Born in Michigan, Maxine is a dual citizen of Canada and the U. S. and makes her home in Port Stanley, Ontario.