About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is navigating a period of intense transition or needs to understand that personal grit can overcome even the most daunting external circumstances. This historical epic follows young Harald Sigurdson from the shores of Viking era Scandinavia to the complex, opulent world of Byzantium. It is a story of resilience that addresses how a person maintains their core identity while being stripped of their freedom and forced into unfamiliar, often dangerous, cultural landscapes. While the setting is 8th century history, the emotional core is about the survival of the spirit. Parents will appreciate the way Treece balances high stakes adventure with a realistic look at the consequences of one's choices. It is best suited for readers aged 10 to 14 who are ready for a gritty, unvarnished look at history. It provides an excellent bridge for discussing how humans have historically navigated conflict, slavery, and the meeting of vastly different civilizations.
