The Vine Basket

"A haunting tale of artistic vision triumphing over adversity." —KirkusReviews

Things aren’t looking good for fourteen-year-old Mehrigul. She yearns to be in school, but she’s needed on the family farm. The longer she’s out of school, the more likely it is that she’ll be sent off to a Chinese factory . . . perhaps never to return. Her only hope is an American who buys one of her decorative baskets for a staggering sum and says she will return in three weeks for more. Mehrigul must brave storms, torn-up hands from working the fields, and her father’s scorn to get the baskets done. The stakes are high, and time is passing . . . will Mehrigul's hard work be enough?

• A Story of Cultural Preservation: Set in the fascinating and rarely seen world of East Turkestan, this novel shines a light on the struggles and resilience of the Uyghur people against a repressive regime.
• Strong Female Protagonist: Fourteen-year-old Mehrigul must discover a deep well of courage to defy her father, save her future, and protect her family from crushing poverty.
• Triumph Over Adversity: With only three weeks to complete an impossible order, Mehrigul battles torn-up hands, her family’s doubts, and the constant threat of being sent away forever.
• Historical Fiction for Young Readers: An inspiring and heartfelt middle grade novel perfect for readers who love stories about different cultures, social justice, and the power of a single dream.

"In her debut novel, La Valley paints a memorable picture of this faraway people. . . . A haunting tale of artistic vision triumphing over adversity."
—Kirkus

"For many readers, this book may be their first introduction to the Uyghur people, and La Valley strongly evokes the culture and struggles of an ethnic group whose future is less than certain."
—Publishers Weekly

"Engages and teaches."
—Booklist

"An absorbing read and an excellent choice for expanding global understanding."
—School Library Journal, starred review

"The carefully honed plot and palpable family tensions...will resonate with most youngsters."
—Bulletin