Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Whisk together water and sugar, pour into a 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Place in oven and allow to start to bubble, about 10 minutes. Remove from oven.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Using a pastry blender, or fork, cut in the shortening until crumbly. Stir in the milk and form a ball.
Sprinkle extra flour on flat surface and slightly knead dough until smooth. Roll dough out into a rectangle about 12 x 8 inches.
Place blueberries into a medium size mixing bowl, and sprinkle with the cinnamon and sugar. Arrange berries evenly over the dough. Place cubes of butter on the berries.
Roll dough up like a jelly roll. Cut slices about 1 1/2 inches thick and place, cut side down, into the pan of syrup. Place any loose berries on top of rolls or into the syrup.
Bake until crust is light golden brown and syrup is bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Remove from oven, allow to cool slightly, and sprinkle confectioner sugar. Serve warm.
Top with ice cream or whipped topping if desired.
Serves 12