The story of a medieval village in England in 1255 comes to life through 23 interweaving monologues. Readers will meet Taggot, the blacksmith’s daughter, who fears she is ugly and will never find a husband. They will learn about crafts from voices like Drogo, the tanner’s apprentice, Edgar, the falconer’s son, and Nelly, the sniggler. From Jacob Ben Salomon, the moneylender’s son, they will experience the harsh treatment Jews suffered in medieval Europe. The author leaves hardly any corner of the village untouched, giving voice to young people of all classes, including Simon, the knight’s son, Giles, the beggar, and Isobel, the lord’s daughter.
After reading (or hearing) these voices from a distant age, readers will come away with a deeper understanding of the hardships of life in a medieval village. Historical notes provide extra information, and an extensive bibliography will help those motivated readers who want to conduct their own research. The author originally wrote the monologues for a group of students to perform, and history teachers will undoubtedly enjoy including this book in their curriculum.
Perhaps one of the most endearing parts of the book are the folksy illustrations by Robert Byrd. His style, which simulates the type of drawing used in the period, is the perfect companion for this text.
DweebMeter: 4/5
Check out this article from Schlitz’ school website about her success.
By the way, this book won the 2008 Newbery Medal. There’s been some debate over whether or not it deserved to win, but, either way, I think it’s a great book.
Apr 29, 2008 at 9:21 pm
This almost reminds me of Maus, but of course in a different time period. Well, that and the fact that it’s actual people and not animals. BUT they both get across a social point across through graphic novel format. Which, I think, gets across to more than just book readers.
Team Edward!