In August of 1887, Robert Louis Stevenson embarked on an Atlantic crossing. So unique was the voyage that his letters describing the passage inspired Nancy Willard to write a wondrous poem that floats somewhere between fact and fantasy.

Full of delightful word pictures, Nancy Willard’s poem tells of remarkable adventures while sailing “for days in a lavender haze.” Richly detailed illustrations by Caldecott medalists Alice and Martin Provensen reflect their appreciation for Robert Louis Stevenson and his works. Together, text and art create a fanciful celebration of Stevenson’s voyage and of Stevenson himself, who has given so much pleasure and delight to the world.

From the dust jacket