Bloodline

Book review by Debra Bogart, Common Sense Media
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Common Sense says

age 14+

Dark ages adventure a draw even for history-phobic teens.

Katy Moran Historical Fiction 2009
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Kids say

age 13+

Based on 1 review

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

Stands out for and .

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this coming of age story set in the dark ages has moments of gory violence but it never feels gratuitous. This is historic fiction at a very high level that gives a marvelous introduction to the rise of Christianity, the pagans' reaction to the notion of one God, and daily life in the dark ages. Also, the resilient and admirable main character also has the ability to share the consciousness of animals and to communicate with them telepathically.

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What's the Story?

In the year 630 A.D., Essa has traveled across empires with his father, the bard called Cai, for as long as he can remember. But when he is 9 years old he wakes up in a Wolf Folk village to find his father has left him behind, with only a sword, to be cared for by a foster mother he's never known. Here Essa finds his first real home: friendships, family, and stability. Son of an Anglish and a British, he doesn't fit in anywhere, as much as he longs to. In a coming of age ritual several years later he discovers an intuitive ability to share the mind of animals, a surprising talent that puts him in danger and makes him long for his father. Soon teenaged Essa and his friends must swear allegiance to the king of their land, and when tribal warfare threatens Essa is sent to spy on a neighboring kingdom. There he makes shocking discoveries, including the savagery of the Mad Dog king, and he risks his life on a quest to save his sweetheart, his adopted family, and his village by preventing more wars. That journey unexpectedly reunites him with his roots, roots that will alter his life and the future of Christianity in prehistoric Britain.

Is It Any Good?

Detailed research and beautiful writing results in a book that submerges readers in another world and time, dangerous, romantic, and thrilling.
Universal aspects of growing up, rebellion, and tradition infused with details of everyday life intertwine in an epic tale of life in the dark ages. The range of tribes and peoples across what we now know as Great Britain can be confusing at times, but a fast pace and surprising plot twists carry the story.

The idea of Christianity as a new way of life, replacing old gods and winning converts by force, is compellingly told. Readers will root for Essa. He is an Everyman who embodies a noble spirit and his story is unforgettable. Teens will enjoy this as an epic adventure even if they normally won't touch historic fiction. Historical notes included at the end.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the rise of Christianity and how it spread throughout the world. What were the other world religions in the 7th century, and how many of them are still practiced?

  • Essa's father is a bard and a storyteller and he has a special status among tribes and across empires. What is that status based upon?

  • Essa has a unique gift, referred to as a brightness. What would the positive aspects of having his gift be? What negative aspects does he encounter? Why would Essa's gift be considered witchcraft by early Christians?

Book Details

Our Editors Recommend

For kids who love coming of age and adventure stories

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