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3.63 AVERAGE
3.63 AVERAGE
This book was great to talk to my daughter about women, herbs, and midwifery during medieval England.
This Newbery winner from ages ago is still worth a read. Strong voice and amazing character arc make it a timeless story of a girl learning to never give up.
I read this a lot when I was younger, I really like the descriptive 'how to'-ish parts. This is actually a lot shorter than I remember. I was there was more story and it felt less clumsy but over all I enjoyed it.
This short fairy tale like story is just the right mix of bitter and sweet. I read it slowly because it is a short book and I didn't want it to end.
Umm. Maybe this is a Young Adult book. But it is not a children's book regardless of the Newbery Award. As usually you probably should read most things before you hand them over to the under 10 crowd.
It is a well researched look at the life of a a medieval midwife.
It is a well researched look at the life of a a medieval midwife.
I can see why this book won awards. I wish I'd found it years ago, I would have read it to the boys.
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This book is suitable for children ages 11 and up, but I'm 23 and I enjoyed it a lot. It's set in midevil England and is about a homeless girl who doesn't even have a name and has to sleep in a compost pile because it's the only warm place where she won't rejected. The story is about how she gets taken in by a midwife to be her apprentice. Its heartwarming to watch her situation and outlook on life improve as she learns this skill.
Content Warnings
Minor: Bullying, Child abuse, Pregnancy
reflective
I appreciate Cushman's commitment to all the characters being horrible to Alyce. She's also great at weaving in period details without devolving into lecture.