About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels overlooked or discouraged by their physical size or perceived weaknesses compared to their peers. It is a powerful choice for the middle-schooler who is struggling to find their place in a competitive environment or who feels like they don't quite fit the mold of what it means to be successful. The story follows twelve year old Will, a small and frail boy in the year 1140 who dreams of knighthood despite being sent away to live as a page in his uncle's castle. Set against the backdrop of the civil war between King Stephen and Empress Matilda, the narrative explores deep themes of resilience, the true meaning of bravery, and the discovery of one's unique talents. It is a sophisticated historical novel that validates the feelings of being an outsider while providing a hopeful roadmap for developing self-confidence through integrity rather than brute force.
