Books by Karen Cushman

Karen Cushman writes middle grade and young adult for ages 8–14, exploring themes of history, being different, self-confidence & identity.

Standalone Books

The Midwife's Apprentice

Karen Cushman

A nameless orphan in medieval Europe begins a new life as a midwife's apprentice, uncovering her own strength despite he

Ages 10–14

The Ballad of Lucy Whipple

Karen Cushman

Lucy hates the dust, the tents, and the lack of libraries in the California gold fields, but she might just find that ho

Ages 8–12

Matilda Bone

Karen Cushman

Fourteen-year-old Matilda works as an apprentice bonesetter in a medieval village, balancing the physical demands of med

Ages 10–14

Rodzina

Karen Cushman

A twelve-year-old Polish American girl boards an orphan train in Chicago, facing her fears as she travels toward an unce

Ages 10–14

The Loud Silence of Francine Green

Karen Cushman

In 1949 Los Angeles, Francine’s friendship with a rebellious classmate at her Catholic school forces her to question the

Ages 10–14

Catherine, Called Birdy

Karen Cushman

Thirteen-year-old Birdy records her daily rebellions against medieval expectations and her father's many attempts to mar

Ages 10–14

Alchemy and Meggy Swann

Karen Cushman

London’s 16th-century streets are no match for Meggy Swann, a feisty girl with walking sticks who must outwit her neglec

Ages 10–14

By Age Range

Ages 8–11

7 books

Ages 12–18

7 books