ODIN'S PROMISE is a historical novel for middle-grade readers, a story of the first year of German occupation of Norway in World War II as seen through the eyes of a young girl. Eleven-year-old Mari grew up tucked under the wings of her parents, grandma, and older siblings. After Hitler's troops invade Norway in Spring 1940, she is forced to grow beyond her "little girl" nickname to deal with harsh new realities. At her side for support and protection is Odin, her faithful elkhound.

As the year progresses, Mari, her family, and her neighbors are drawn into the activities of the Norwegian underground resistance.

Readers will cheer for Mari as she develops her inner strength - and the courage to help celebrate Norway's spirit of resistance." - Kathleen Ernst, author of American Girl's Caroline Abbott series.

"Beautifully written, emotionally taut novel of one girl's coming of age during war time." - Gayle Rosengren, What the Moon Said.

Sandy Brehl is a teacher and member of the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators. She lives in Muskego, Wisconsin, near Milwaukee.