The Siege of Caerlaverock

Author:

Barbara Henderson

Illustrator:

Published by:

Pokey Hat

First Published:

6 Aug 2020

Ideal for readers aged

9-12y

My Review

It's hard to find well written fiction set in the Middle Ages, but this book defies the trend! Barbara Henderson excels at bringing to life a castle under siege. The story grabs you right from the start, and Ada is a brilliant heroine - conflicted, brave, honest and determined to do what is right even in the face or mortal danger. With short chapters and gripping storytelling, this would make a great class read aloud!

Heads Up!

Barbara Henderson is an author known for her excellent historical fiction set in her native Scotland.

There are moments of gore and bloodshed - this is a Medieval castle under siege, after all!

Publisher Review

WINNER YOUNG QUILLS AWARD BEST HISTORICAL FICTION 2021 12-year-old Ada is a laundress of little consequence but the new castle commander Brian de Berclay has his evil eye on her. Perhaps she shouldn’t have secretly fed the young prisoner in the tower. But when the King of England crosses the border with an army of over 3000 strong, Ada, her friend Godfrey and all at Caerlaverock suddenly find themselves under attack, with only 60 men for protection. Soon, rocks and flaming arrows rain from the sky over Castle Caerlaverock - and Ada has a dangerous choice to make.