Cushman, Karen. 2000. Matilda Bone. New York, NY: Clarion. ISBN 0-395-88156-0.
Plot Summary
Orphaned Matilda spent her young life on a manor under the tutelage of Father Leufredus learning Latin and religious doctrine until she became a bonesetter's apprentice. Red Peg, with her rough manners, brutal job and unreasonable expectations, shocks and dismays Matilda. Now she must find her place in the tough and bewildering world of Blood and Bone Alley as well as her way into a new life that challenges all her beliefs.
Critical Analysis
Medieval historical fiction makes the reader grateful for indoor plumbing and modern dentistry as well as penicillin. Students who visit the doctor regularly and enjoy the wellness of our society will begin to appreciate the advances of modern medicine. Along with a look at medicine, Cushman provides a peek into the difficulties of everyday medieval life and the formality of the Christian religion. A brief author's note offers some background into the medical practices at the time and lists the resources she utilized.
Matilda's subconscious search for friendship and belonging draws readers into her world. Children may not have to visit the market each day for fresh eel, but they do feel the need to care for others and to be loved. Matilda's prayers (and the saint's answers) add a touch of humor. The dialog and details present an atmosphere of medieval life without overwhelming the reader. Cushman creates supporting characters that appeal to the reader and, eventually, to Matilda herself.
Review Excerpts
The Horn Book: "Matilda's saintliness wears thin on the reader; one is eager for her to embrace the uncertain, questioning world. . . . A compelling afterword acquaints readers with the arcane medicine of her day."
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books: "Cushman has a sure hand with the details of her early English world; the visceral aspects of low-tech town living and the bustle of urban life are well displayed here..."
Connections
Books for background information or historical extension:
DK Publishing. Medieval Life (DK Eyewitness Books). ISBN-13: 978-0756607050
Hart, Avery and Paul Mantell. Knights & Castles: 50 Hands-On Activities to Experience the Middle Ages. ISBN-13: 978-1885593177
Students can contrast our high-tech world with Matilda's low-tech environment. How well would you live in Medieval England? Would you miss your bathtub or your IPod more?
MacDonald, Fiona and David Salariya. How Would You Survive in the Middle Ages? ISBN-13: 978-0531153062
No comments:
Post a Comment