Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that there are some sexual references: "tumbl[ing] maids," "proof of virginity," and "warm and eager hands sliding beneath my shift."
Families who read this book could discuss the conflict between Christians and Muslims, and the parallels with our own times. Why would Edward have the ideas he has about Muslims after his experiences? Why does he want to tell his story? Who is right -- Edward or Meg? Also, why might 17th-century men have been opposed to women learning Latin?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Matt Berman
Written in a formal, exacting style meant to give a flavor of the time in which it is set, without actually resorting to post-Shakespearean language, this sequel to At the Sign of the Star is not for reluctant readers. Those with more experience will find it thoroughly engrossing, and it stands well on its own for those who haven't read the first book. A TRUE AND FAITHFUL NARRATIVE combines a winning heroine, who is independent but not anachronistic, a detailed glimpse of Reformation England, romance, adventure, literary references, and a bold shift of viewpoint.
That change of perspective, embodied in Edward's mixed feelings about his ordeal, and his open-minded understanding of Muslim culture at odds with the beliefs of his friends and family, gives the book depth and resonance with our own times. Without once sounding didactic, the author gives modern readers as much to think about as she gives Meg, and discussion groups will have much to debate in Edward's painful revelations of the world he has experienced so brutally.
From The Book
He fished out his shillings, and put them into my open palm. His fingers were warm and soft. Before I could curl my hand around the coins he laid his own palm over mine, trapping the money between our two hands. "And what shall I bring you, Meg?"
It was then that I remembered Anne's words, Be kind to him, and understood them for the first time. My mouth fell open and I was flooded with horror, for it was clear that he offered me a courtship gift. I knew not what to say, and it is a fault of mine that I cannot be still at such moments. Instead, the wrong words fly from my tongue.
"Why, nothing, unless -- yes, I so wish we had a narrative to rival Okeley's that we might sell at the sign of the Star. Can you not manage to be captured by pirates, and enslaved in North Africa?"
Plot Summary:
In 17th-century London, Meg, the daughter of a bookseller and publisher, is courted by two young men: Will, her father's apprentice, and Edward, brother of her closest friend. But Meg is not comfortable with the idea of marriage -- she wants to be a writer, despite her father's firm prohibition. So when Edward comes to tell her that he is traveling to Livorno, and asks what he should bring her back as a gift, she blithely suggests that he get captured and enslaved by pirates, so that she will have material for a story to write.
Much to her horror, that is exactly what happens, and word comes back that the Muslims who have him are demanding a huge ransom. Guilt-ridden, Meg works tirelessly to raise the money. But when Edward finally comes home, he is a changed man, and the story he begins recounting to her is not what she expected.
Related Books:
Other Books by Katherine Sturtevant:
At the Sign of the Star
More Pre-feminists:
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Quest for a Maid by Frances Mary Hendry
Catherine Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
The Forestwife by Theresa Tomlinson
I, Coriander by Sally Gardner
Related Web Sites:
Author's Site
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Sexual ContentMentions of "tumbl[ing] maids," and "proof of virginity." Meg wonders what it would be like to have "warm and eager hands sliding beneath [her] shift." |
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ViolenceImagined and real beatings of a slave and a child, a hanging. |
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Social BehaviorDiscussions of racial and religious differences. Negroes are referred to as "brutes." |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoDrinking and drunkenness, smoking a pipe mentioned. |
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