By Karen Cushman
Classification: YA Literature
Genre: Historical fiction
Age Level: 10+
Subjects: Medieval village life, self-discovery, midwifery
“Just because you don’t know everything don’t mean you know nothing.” ~ from The Midwife’s Apprentice
Summary: An unnamed girl who can only remember begging and scrounging and being tormented by villagers is taken in by a midwife. With only a cat for a companion, the girl works hard and slowly learns to observe the midwife in her tasks. Finally, the girl knows what she wants: a full belly, a contented heart, and a place in the world. All are within her reach if only she can overcome her own feelings of worthlessness.
Notes: This Newberry Medal Book is a good read for the plucky protagonist as well as for the historical elements and the subject of midwifery.
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