★“Scenes unfold with cinematic flair...Bonheur’s tenacity and determination will resonate with children, whether or not they’re familiar with her art.”—Quill & Quire, starred review

Based on the incredible life of the pioneering, feminist and queer artist Rosa Bonheur, this charming story depicts Rosa's early years and her drive to fight for her dreams.

Rosa Bonheur loved to draw animals. She was good at it too! Unfortunately, in nineteenth-century France, girls were not allowed to be artists. But Rosa didn't let that stop her. In this fictionalized account of her early life in Paris, Rosa studies art at home, bringing a menagerie of animals into the apartment to study up close. When she is kicked out of the horse market for sneaking in wearing boys clothing, Rosa must think creatively to challenge the rules in pursuit of her dream of becoming a world-class realist painter and artist.

Mireille Messier is a Montreal-born, Ottawa-raised and now Toronto-based award-winning children's writer with a background in broadcasting and theater. Before becoming an author, Mireille worked as a television and radio host, a scriptwriter, a book reviewer and a voice actress. Sometimes she still does those things. Mireille has published over twenty books, some in French, others in English, for children of all ages. The Branch was nominated for Shining Willow, Blue Spruce and Governor General's Awards. Mireille lives in Toronto with her husband, two wonderful daughters, three fluffy cats and over a hundred goldfish.
Anna Bron was born in Russia and immigrated to Canada when she was nine years old. She was lucky enough to have parents who nurtured and encouraged a career in art. She attended art school in her teens, and then went on to study traditional hand-drawn animation at Sheridan College. Not long after graduating she became a freelance illustrator and animator, working on a broad range of projects, from illustrating children’s books and magazines to animating, designing and directing commercials and short films.