The Book of Boy

Boy, a young goatherd with a hump on his back, lives and works on a medieval French manor in 1350. When a mysterious pilgrim named Secundus arrives seeking sacred relics of Saint Peter, Boy becomes his unwilling traveling companion on a journey that will lead them to Rome. The story takes place against the backdrop of a plague-ravaged Europe, where danger and desperation lurk around every corner. As Boy and Secundus navigate treacherous roads and hostile territories in their quest for holy artifacts, they encounter thieves, monks, nobles, and others who either help or hinder their progress. This historical adventure combines elements of medieval Christianity, folklore, and coming-of-age storytelling to explore themes of identity, truth, and redemption. The novel raises questions about what makes someone human and the complex nature of good and evil.

Readers appreciate the medieval European setting, engaging quest narrative, and unique perspective of the main character Boy. Many found the blend of historical fiction and magical realism compelling, particularly how religious artifacts and beliefs of the time period were woven into the story. Readers highlighted the book's thoughtful handling of disability, identity, and acceptance. Parents noted it prompted meaningful discussions with children about differences and self-worth. Common criticisms include the slow pacing in the first few chapters and some confusion about the target age range, with several readers finding certain themes too mature for younger children but the writing style too simple for teens. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (280+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 (parents), 4/5 (kids) "A perfect balance of history, heart, and wonder" - Goodreads reviewer "The medieval setting feels authentic without being heavy-handed" - Amazon reviewer "Some religious elements may require context for young readers" - School Library Journal reader review

The Inquisitor's Tale by Adam Gidwitz This medieval adventure follows three gifted children and a dog on a quest through France while exploring faith, miracles, and prejudice.

The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman A nameless medieval girl works for a village midwife and discovers her identity and worth in a story of determination set in 14th-century England.

Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman A 13th-century lord's daughter chronicles her life through diary entries as she resists arranged marriage and navigates medieval society.

Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! by Laura Amy Schlitz Interconnected monologues present life in a medieval manor through the voices of children from different social classes.

The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli A nobleman's son in medieval England overcomes physical disability to find his place in the world during a time of plague and warfare.

🔹 During the time this book is set (1350), approximately one-third of Europe's population had been wiped out by the Black Death, fundamentally transforming medieval society. 🔹 Catherine Gilbert Murdock was inspired to write this story after visiting medieval churches in Europe and becoming fascinated by the historical practice of relic collecting. 🔹 The concept of pilgrimages, central to the book's plot, was a crucial aspect of medieval Christian life, with millions undertaking dangerous journeys to visit holy sites and relics. 🔹 The Book of Boy was named a 2019 Newbery Honor Book, one of the most prestigious awards in children's literature. 🔹 Before writing children's books, Catherine Gilbert Murdock earned a Ph.D. in American Civilization from the University of Pennsylvania and wrote several successful young adult novels.