Words by Heart

Lena can recite the Scriptures by heart. Hoping to make her adored Papa proud of her and to make her white classmates notice her "Magic Mind," not her black skin, Lena vows to win the Bible-quoting contest. But winning does not bring Lena what she expected. Instead of honor, violence and death erupt and strike the one she loves most dearly. Lena, who has believed in vengeance, must now learn how to forgive.

Ouida Sebestyen was raised in Texas and attended University of Colorado. She has published several young adult novels including The Girl in the Box, Far From Home, Out of Nowhere, and Words by Heart.