The setting: Victoria, a former prison colony. Here reside two distinct groups of exiles from the planet Earth—the city dwellers, or "bosses," and the farmers of Shantih. The farmers are committed to the principles of nonviolence and peace. The city dwellers, who depend upon the farmers for their food, treat the farmers as virtual slaves.

After scouting out the surrounding area, a group of farmers decide to create a new settlement to the north where they will be free from the rule and oppression of the bosses. City officials see the move as a "rebellion" and vow to crush it.

Luz, the daughter of one of the city's Bosses, decides she cannot live under the control of her father any longer and runs away to Shantih. There she begins to learn the way of the farmers.

When the two groups finally confront one another face-to-face, violence erupts. And in that moment, everything changes—for both sides.

The themes of nonviolence, freedom, and strength of character are seamlessly woven into this beautifully told tale. The characters are eminently believable, allowing the reader to became caught up in their passions and struggles.

A definite "must-read," the book's sense of place and sympathetic characters will linger in the reader's mind.

Highly recommended.

Reviewed by the teachers at Education Oasis.