Karen Cushman, Author
- BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cushman, Karen. 1994. CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 9780395681866.
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Catherine, Called Birdy is set in the medieval England historical time period. It is a novel told through diary entries of a fourteen-year-old Catherine as she navigates the expectations set by family, friends, and the pressure to marry a wealthy suitor that is chosen by her father. Through humor and determination, she seeks out ways to maintain her independence while learning about the responsibility of growing up.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Karen Cushman incorporates a historically accurate details through the diary entries about daily life, customs, and social expectations. The entries give a personal perspective from Birdy’s experience, and they allow the reader to experience history through a firsthand account. Throughout, she is determined to make her own choices while also battling the limited opportunities that are offered to girls her age during the Middle Ages. Details are introduced throughout her observations and allow the reader to feel as if they are also there with her.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
George L. Thomas: “So, if you’re looking to be transported to another time and to feel encouraged to be your own unique self, then Catherine, Called Birdy is definitely worth a read.”
5. CONNECTIONS
- Students can compare and contrast the roles of children during the Middle Ages and in the present day. They can write out their own journal or diary entries on their daily perspectives.
- Related books:
– Cushman, Karen. THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE
– Giff, Patricia Reilly. LILY’S CROSSING
The Literary Compass 