The protagonist in this novel is chosen by powerful adults to carry out an important task. Set in a futuristic society that emerges after great destruction on planet Earth, Kira is left homeless after her mother dies mysteriously. Kira is threatened with death because she has a deformed leg and her society sees no purpose for those who cannot do hard labour. Kira is saved because, like her mother, she is able to dye threads. The Council of Guardians gives her the job of repairing and restoring the robe of the Singer, the oral historian who presides at the annual harvest time Gathering celebration. Through her work, Kira discovers that she has real talent for creating new and beautiful patterns. She also discovers, however, that her temporary privileged status will eventually bring her doom. The novel is an examination of a future society that will challenge readers to think about community, creativity and the values they have learned to accept. .

English language arts grade 9 (2009).