Catla and the Vikings

Gr 5–8—From the get-go, this is a fast-paced and intriguing story, filled with historical elements that become clearer as the narrative unfolds. The action takes place over several days during the fall of 1066. When 13-year-old Catla witnesses her Northumbrian village being attacked by Vikings, she travels to the next town to warn the people and seek help, meeting up with a boy from her village along the way. Having been thought of as a dreamer, Catla is now forced to be resourceful and independent, leading the villagers into battle with her own strategy. At the time, Christian and pagan beliefs still coexisted, but Christianity was becoming the new dominant religion. This fascinating bit of history is subtly interwoven throughout the book with passing comments and discussions about gods, traditions, and ghosts. In addition to the battle scenes and the creative traps set up to catch the Vikings, the book has thoughtful commentary about what it meant to be a girl at this juncture. The story ends abruptly, but an interesting author's note adds further details about the era.—Kerry Roeder, The Brearley School, New York City