Publisher: New York: Balzer + Bray, 2019
Summary:
This book retells the iconic story of Jon of Arc. Lyrical and dark, a moving look at the life of Joan of Arc, who started as an illiterate peasant but turns into a fierce warrior who will command an entire army, save an entire nation and help crown the king of France.
Born as Jehanne, she never fit in among her siblings and peers. Then one day, she hears a voice, telling her she is destined for great things. She recognises this voice as the voice of God and she has been chosen to save France.
In a man’s world, women held no power in the 15th century, so through sheer determination and courage, Jehanne ran away from home and dressed as a man. She travels among the soldiers she would eventually lead into battle, braves repeated threats and suffers battle wounds. Despite the impossible odds, Jehanne is a fearless warrior who has and will continue to inspire generations.
The author, Hemphill gives both a personal story about a young girls' rise in power and a story that explains the political situation between France and England and the 100 Year War. This story is not an easy one but has been told with beauty and grace, the writing is poetic and gives insight into what Jehanne is going through and her struggles with gender, war and faith. While definitely a novel that will empower young girls, this book will also invite young boys into understanding the struggle that women have had to face and continue to face through expressive and masterful parallels to the modern-day. It will also show boys, that no matter the odds, anything is possible.
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