My Guardian Angel

Elvina, twelve-year-old granddaughter of Rashi (Solomon ben Isaac of Troyes, France, the famous Bible commentator), loves to write and read – rare interests for a girl in 11th century France. She is helping to hide a young, injured Crusader soldier who would rather be a scholar than a fighter. This could potentially be catastrophic for the Jewish community which is living under the shadow of the Crusader leader, Peter the Hermit, a fearful man with a reputation of violence. Translated from the French, and winner of the illustrious Prix Sorciéres, this beautifully written story switches from first person to third when Elvina shares her thoughts and dreams with “Mazal,” her guardian angel. The danger and suspense will appeal to kids, and many will be intrigued (and probably indignant!) by antiquated gender role differences described throughout the story. An historical afterword and glossary complete this lovely work of historical fiction.