Catherine, Called Birdy

 

Bibliography
Cushman, Karen, 1994. CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY. New York, NY. ISBN 9781328631114.

Plot Summary
Following her monk brother's suggestion of writing entries in a diary, Birdy grudgingly entertains the idea by writing about her daily life in England of 1290. Birdy struggles with her family's expectations of her, as her mother tries to teach her how be lady-like and her father seeks out suitors to marry her off. However, little do her parents know, Birdy will lead her own path with her strong willed personality. 

Critical Analysis
Cushman writes about a young girl named Catherine (Birdy), who begins to write in a diary at the request of her older brother. While she's skeptical of the idea in the beginning, she begins to take to the habit and share her daily life in each entry. Birdy is comical as she is experiencing coming of age, almost like a strong-willed, moody teenager. However, she cannot be described as moody necessarily, she just happens to know what she wants and will fight for what she believes in. Which isn't expected of young girls living in 1290, as it is their duty to become a proper lady and prepare for their arranged marriages. As readers learn more of Birdy, her life at home, and her family's expectations for Birdy to fulfill her duties, they will get an idea of what life and the language was like in medieval England due to the authentic details Cushman provides. Each entry Birdy writes, she includes the date, the seasons, village holidays, and ongoing church festivals. During this time in England, the church held great authority and power. Cushman provides information and insight of life in England of 1290 in the author's note. She also provided a list of titles to read if reader's are interested in learning more about medieval England and the Middle Ages. While we may not relate to the traditions and expectations of medieval times, we can relate to the overwhelming feeling of wanting to lead our own paths. 

Review Excerpt(s)
Newbery Honor Book - 1995
Starred review in KIRKUS REVIEWS: "Her tenacity and ebullient naïveté are extraordinary; at once comic and thought-provoking, this first novel is a delight. Historical note."
Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: "Despite the too-convenient ending, this first novel introduces an admirable heroine and pungently evokes a largely unfamiliar setting."

Connections
- For readers who enjoy reading and writing quirky diary entries from a strong, rebellious character.
- Readers who are interested in reading stories set in England, during Medieval times.
- Similar book recommendations:
Blume, Judy. DEENIE. ISBN 9781481410366
Cushman, Karen. THE LOUD SILENCE OF FRANCINE GREEN. ISBN 9781328497994
Cushman, Karen. THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE. ISBN 9781328631121

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