First called Brat, then called Beetle, our main character finally chooses for herself the name Alyce. She has nothing, and no one to love. No home, no family, until she saves the life of an orange cat who seems to be just as unfortunate as herself. She is discovered sleeping in a dung heap by a grumpy old midwife, and becomes her apprentice.
There is no real drama here, other than Alyce growing to believe in herself, fighting off horrible bullies, and learning how to birth babies in a time when many women died in childbirth. This is a beautifully told story, with rich historical details, and a main character you just want to hug. (After she cleans up from the dung heap, of course!)
No comments:
Post a Comment