The Peach Thief

An apple got Adam and Eve thrown out of paradise. In Linda Joan Smith’s glowing debut novel, a peach shows a 13-year-old girl the way in.
—The New York Times Book Review

From the dramatic beginning to the equally dramatic conclusion, you’ll be caught up in all sorts of growing, from melons to apples to, most importantly, the growth we all hope for: growing into our truest selves. Scilla’s journey in this complex and surprising world fills her heart, and it will fill ours.
—Gary D. Schmidt, Newbery Honor winner and author of The Labors of Hercules Beal

Smith’s debut novel is an exceptional example in transmuting the dedicated act of gardening to the nurturing of one’s soul. This vivid story of struggle and loss spearheaded by hope is appended with an extensive author’s note that touches upon aspects of nineteenth-century England, including horticulture, British India, dialect,
and more.
—Booklist (starred review)

Nuanced, richly atmospheric, and exquisitely written.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Smith’s debut serves up a historical fiction tale not to be missed. . . Hand to fans of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley’s The War that Saved My Life and Kate Albus’s A Place to Hang the Moon. A first purchase for all libraries.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

This lovely, well-drawn novel will appeal to historical fiction fans and kids who love plants, and will make a great bedtime read-aloud. And adults, be forewarned: You may cry at the end.
—BookPage (starred review)

Richly detailed debut.
—Publishers Weekly