The Short Knife

Elen Caldecott's 'The Short Knife' is a gripping historical fiction novel set in 454AD, a tumultuous period in Britain following the Roman withdrawal. The story follows Mai, a young woman whose family is forced to abandon their farm when Saxon warriors attack. They seek refuge in the hills, only to encounter dangerous British warlords. The narrative explores intense themes of survival, cultural identity, and the profound challenge of trust, as Mai discovers that even those closest to her may not be reliable. This 400-page book is ideal for young adults aged 12-18, offering a rich, immersive, and often dark look into a pivotal moment in history, while also providing a compelling personal journey of resilience and self-discovery.

Winner of the Tir na n-Og Award Longlisted for the Carnegie Medal It is the year 454AD. The Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain, throwing it into the chaos of the Dark Ages. Mai has been kept safe by her father and her sister, Haf. But when Saxon warriors arrive at their farm, the family is forced to flee to the hills where British warlords lie in wait. Can Mai survive in a dangerous world where speaking her mother tongue might be deadly, and where even the people she loves the most can't be trusted?