Peregrine

Peregrine introduces readers to Lady Edith, a fifteen-year-old in 1144 England, who has endured the profound loss of her husband and child. Faced with the prospect of a forced marriage to a man she detests, Edith makes the courageous decision to embark on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. The book follows her journey, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges she faces while seeking autonomy and a new purpose in life. The narrative handles sensitive topics like grief and the societal constraints on women in the medieval period with a thoughtful, age-appropriate approach, focusing on Edith's resilience and determination rather than explicit details of her past trauma. The emotional arc begins with a sense of loss and desperation but gradually builds towards hope and self-discovery as Edith navigates the world beyond her sheltered life. This book is ideal for readers aged 9-12 who are drawn to historical fiction, adventure stories, and narratives featuring strong female protagonists. Parents might reach for this book when their child is exploring themes of independence, coping with change, or showing an interest in historical periods. It offers a gentle yet empowering look at overcoming adversity. While the protagonist is 15, the themes and reading level are accessible for late elementary and early middle school readers. It stands out by presenting a historical journey of self-empowerment driven by personal agency in a time when women had limited choices.