A Cloud of Outrageous Blue

June 29, 2020
Following the deaths, by murder and childbirth, of her parents in 14th-century England, Edyth le Sherman’s brother arranges for the 16-year-old synesthete to become a working resident at a Yorkshire priory. Artistic Edie is reluctant to leave the familiarity of her small hometown, especially Mason, a stonemason’s son with whom she shares a flirtation. Under the stern, watchful eye of Sub-Prioress Agnes de Guile, though, Edie finds joy in a new friendship and in her duties preparing pigments in the scriptorium. She also struggles to conceal two secrets: her renewed relationship with Mason, who arrives to rebuild a chapel, and her synesthesia, which causes her to associate colors with other senses and fall into a trance while grinding lapis lazuli. One day, during prayer, Edie notices a panel of stained glass in the church that shows an image from a recurring dream that has haunted her since childhood. She begins to feel “something’s unfolding” and, as the Black Death begins its rampage, wonders if she’s part of something bigger. Though modern language (“longest winter ever”) can distract, Stamper’s (What the Night Sings) dark and well-researched historical tale moves swiftly, incorporating elements of the miraculous and affectingly punctuated with elegant watercolor illustrations in hues that recall illuminated texts. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 12–up. Agent: Lori Kilkelly, LK Literary.

Ell Potter takes the listener back to the mid-fourteenth century as she narrates the story of young Edyth Le Sherman. Edyth is a peasant whose life is turned upside down when her father is killed, her mother and newborn sister die, and her older brother sends her off to a priory. Potter narrates smoothly, giving all the characters unique voices. She strongly portrays Edyth's wide range of emotions as she processes her losses, her synesthesia and visions, and the arrival of the Plague. The atmosphere created is one of intrigue that mixes religion, superstition, and science. Medieval musical interludes between some chapters add to the ambiance, as do Latin phrases and songs interspersed throughout the story. The author's note, read by Vesper Stamper herself, adds fascinating historical context. N.E.M. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine