In the isolated rural community of Unity, the people of The Movement live a simple life guided by a set of religious principles and laws that are unique to them. Polygamy is the norm, strict obedience is expected, and it is customary for young girls to be assigned to much older husbands.

Celeste was born and raised in Unity, yet she struggles to fit in and to accept her ordained life. At fifteen she is repulsed at the thought of being assigned to an older man and becoming a sister wife. She wants something more for herself but feels powerless to change her destiny because rebelling would bring shame upon her family.

Torn from the headlines and inspired by current events, Sister Wife is a compelling portrait of a community where the laws of the outside world are ignored and where individuality is punished.

Orca Book Publishers 2008

Awards and Recognitions

Finalist, Governor General’s Literary Award, 2009
White Pine Honour Book, 2010
Resource Links Best Bet 2008
Canadian Library Association Honour Book
Included on the International Reading Association’s Young Adult Choices list
Voice of Youth Advocates Top Shelf Fiction list
ALA Best Book for Young Adults

Reviews

“…compelling…authentic.”- VOYA

“Highly Recommended.” – CM Magazine