elyra's review against another edition
5.0
Comments: This was the second time I read this book, and it was as good as I remembered. About a lord's daughter in the 1300's ish, it is very historically accurate but immensely enjoyable non the less. I would recommend it for virtually anyone who likes historical fiction, especially younger readers (8, 9+).
poorashleu's review against another edition
2.0
I can see why this won a Newbery honor and I also think if I would have read it when it came out, I may have enjoyed it more than at my current age.
ninjapants's review against another edition
4.5
This was a childhood favorite recently revisited before watching the 2022 film. I was so happy to find that this was as engrossing and delightful as I remembered it being. It’s meticulously researched, in contrast to the sanitized, generic medieval fantasy setting of the film.
The decision to tell the story through Catherine’s journal entries is excellent. Cushman doesn’t shy away from the parts of life that are hard, dreary, disgusting. Even horrific. Catherine is utterly matter-of-fact and frequently humorous about the conditions around her ensuring that the time never become dismal. She’s gaining maturity, new perspectives, and questioning what’s worth railing against or not during a pivotal year for her which gives modern readers and accessible entry into a difficult foreign setting.
Timeless, engrossing coming of age story that deserves a place with the classics.
nevquinn's review against another edition
1.0
Slice of life book with no climax. Possibly the worst book I’ve ever read. Nothing ever happened.
zorkkanna's review against another edition
challenging
funny
informative
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
bibliopage's review against another edition
4.0
I remember knowing of this book during my adolescence and am reading it for the first time as an adult. Corpus bones! I enjoyed seeing Catherine's perspective (sometimes quite flawed) as she comes to a greater understanding of herself and the world around her. This was a good read and I'm very eager to watch the 2022 version of it on AP!
bsnmomma12's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
5.0
luna_rondo's review against another edition
1.0
Not meant for me, though I'm sure a few younger readers would enjoy it.