One night in 1242, travelers at a French Inn swap stories around the fire. Together, they tell the story of three children: Jeanne, a peasant girl who sees the future; William, a young monk with superhuman strength; and Jacob, a Jewish boy who heals wounds with a few herbs and a prayer. These three children with their unique talents, set the medieval French countryside in an uproar. But in the midst of chaos, they teach valuable lessons of love, tolerance, and wisdom.
With The Inquisitor’s Tale, Gidwitz weaves a profound story of love and acceptance. He combines medieval history and legend in a style that harkens back to Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales while retaining a modern feel. Hatem Aly’s ‘illuminations’ add to that combined medieval yet modern style. The writing is excellent and the story interesting and I loved it. However, my challenge as a librarian will be finding a child with enough depth and maturity to stick with this. This book deserves the Newbery Honor it received, but I hope to find an appreciative audience.
Recommended ages--10 and up