Stand on the Sky

2019 Winner of the Governor Generals Literary Award?

An exquisitely written, uplifting middle grade debut by acclaimed author, Erin Bow, about a young girl who defies her family’s expectations in order to save her brother and become an eagle hunter, perfect for fans of PAX.

It goes against all tradition for Aisulu to train an eagle, for among the Kazakh nomads, only men can fly them. But everything changes when Aisulu discovers that her brother, Serik, has been concealing a bad limp that risks not just his future as the familys leader, but his life too.

When her parents leave to seek a cure for Serik in a distant hospital, Aisulu finds herself living with her intimidating uncle and strange auntie—and secretly caring for an orphaned baby eagle. To save her brother and keep her family from having to leave their nomadic life behind forever, Aisulu must earn her eagle’s trust and fight for her right to soar. Along the way, she discovers that family are people who choose each other, home is a place you build, and hope is a thing with feathers.

Erin Bow’s lyrical middle grade debut is perfect for fans of original animal-friendship stories like Pax and Because of Winn Dixie.

One girls determination. One brothers secret. And one orphaned eagle that could save them all.

A Strong Girl Protagonist: In a world where only men can be eagle hunters, Aisulu will defy every tradition to save her brother, Serik, and protect their family’s nomadic way of life. An Epic Animal Friendship: When she finds an orphaned baby eagle, Aisulu must secretly care for it and earn its trust. Their bond might be the only thing that can keep her hope alive. A Heart-Wrenching Survival Story: From a sudden blizzard to her brother’s worsening secret illness, Aisulu faces the harsh beauty of the mountains and discovers the true meaning of family. Rich Cultural Setting: Journey to the steppes of Western Mongolia and immerse yourself in the world of Kazakh nomads, a life of deep tradition, fierce loyalty, and a powerful connection to the sky.