The Midwife's Apprentice - by Karen Cushman (Paperback)

About the Book

A poor girl in medieval England gains a name, a purpose, and a future in this "delightful" and beloved Newbery Medal-winning book. Now with a new cover! (School Library Journal, starred review) Introduction by Lois Lowry.

Book Synopsis

A poor girl in medieval England gains a name, a purpose, and a future in this "delightful"* and beloved Newbery Medal-winning book. Now with a new cover!

* "A truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature." --School Library Journal*, starred review

* "A fascinating view of a far distant time." --Horn Book, starred review

* "Gripping." --Kirkus, starred review

A girl known only as Brat has no family, no home, and no future until she meets Jane the Midwife and becomes her apprentice. As she helps the short-tempered Jane deliver babies, Brat--who renames herself Alyce--gains knowledge, confidence, and the courage to want something in life for the first time. Introduction by Lois Lowry.

Review Quotes

"With simplicity, wit, and humor, Cushman presents another tale of medieval England. Here readers follow the satisfying, literal and figurative journey of a homeless, nameless child called Brat. . . . Earthy humor, the foibles of humans both high and low, and a fascinating mix of superstition and genuinely helpful herbal remedies attached to childbirth make this a truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature." -- School Library Journal (starred review)

"This novel is about a strong, young woman in medieval England who finds her own way home. . . . Kids will be caught up in this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone."
-- Booklist (starred review)

A gripping story about a time, place, and society that 20th-century readers can hardly fathom. -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

About the Author

Karen Cushman's acclaimed historical novels include Catherine, Called Birdy, a Newbery Honor winner. She lives on Vashon Island in Washington State. karencushman.com, @cushmanbooks