The fictionalized story of a young Javanese girl who advocated for girls to be educated in the late-1800s. Once again, a middle grade novel opened my eyes to history and culture in another country. I was quickly caught up in the story itself and forgot that Kartini was a real person. Although based on research, Kadarusman makes it clear in her back matter that this is fiction, her imaginings of what might have led Kartini to take the stance she did. I look forward to recommending this to both young readers as well as adults.

Review based on a DRC received through NetGalley.