Catla and the Vikings

June 1, 2012

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

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2012
Grades 5-8 Thirteen-year-old Catla spent the day on the headland, rather than in her village. So when the Vikings come ashore, burn the houses, and capture the villagers, including Catla's family, she is freebut to do what? She decides to find her way to Aigber, a nearby village, and seek help. On the way, she must conquer her fears of passing through the ancient circle of stones; decide how much to trust Sven, an older boy from her village who also eluded capture; and help the villagers of Aigber combat the Vikings. Set in England in 1066, this novel takes place over two days and has a sense of urgency, propelled by both the narrative itself and Catla's impatience to rescue her family, even as she must respond with grace and justice to the Vikings who would rob her of all she holds dear. The author's sense of place is strong, and the anticipation of Catla's return to her village is palpableall of which makes the emotionless reunion a great disappointment. A frustrating ending to an otherwise compelling novel.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)