Catherine, Called Birdy

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cushman, Karen. 1995. CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY. New York, NY: HarperCollins. ISBN 0-06-440584-2

2.SUMMARY
Adolescent Catherine is the daughter of the wholly disgusting Sir Rollo who intends to marry her off for as much loot as he can as early as he can. This book, told in diary form tells the story of how Catherine views her life, avoids her potential suitors and connects with her family. Along the way, readers are invited to share a completely plebeian view of middle class life in mideviel England-fleas and all!

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This book represents the best of what historical fiction has to offer. The reader becomes completely engulfed in Catherine’s life and in the process learns about the clothing, medicine, diet, social customs and mores of the English is 1290. The setting, while different from modern times, is brought to life so brilliantly, that readers will have no trouble places themselves in the story. The plot is realistic and themes involving family disputes are always universal. Cushman writes with compelling authority and accuracy. This book should not be missed.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
*Golden Kite Winner (1994)
*Newberry Award Nominee (1995)
*Young Reader’s Choice Awards Nominee (1997)
School Library Journal - The book is rich with information about the food, dress, religious beliefs, manners, health, medical practices, and sanitary habits (or lack thereof) of the people of her day. From the number of fleas she kills in an evening to her herbal medicines laced with urine, Birdy reveals fascinating facts about her time period.
Kirkus Reviews-The period has rarely been presented for young people with such authenticity; the exotic details will intrigue readers while they relate more closely to Birdy's yen for independence and her sensibilities toward the downtrodden. Her tenacity and ebullient naïveté are extraordinary; at once comic and thought-provoking, this first novel is a delight.

5. CONNECTION
Use this book to launch a discussion about medieval life, the royalty, or the crusades.
Meyer, Carolyn. MARY, BLOODY MARY. ISBN 0152164561
Cushman, Karen. THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. ISBN 006440630X