Discover books similar to "The Midwife's Apprentice"

Karen Cushman

The Midwife's Apprentice

3.72

"The Midwife's Apprentice" by Karen Cushman is a Newbery Medal-winning historical novel set in medieval England. The story follows a young homeless girl, known only as "Brat," who wanders the countryside in search of food and shelter. After being taken in by a midwife named Jane, Brat becomes her apprentice and begins to learn the trade. Through Cushman's vivid and engaging prose, readers are transported to a time when life was harsh and uncertain, particularly for women. Brat's journey from a homeless outcast to a respected member of her community is both heartwarming and empowering. Along the way, she learns the value of hard work, perseverance, and self-reliance. Cushman's portrayal of medieval midwifery is both informative and fascinating. She provides a detailed and authentic depiction of the practices and rituals of the time, while also exploring the challenges and dangers that midwives faced. The novel is also notable for its strong and complex female characters, who defy societal expectations and assert their agency in a male-dominated world. "The Midwife's Apprentice" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. Its themes of resilience, self-discovery, and female empowerment make it a valuable addition to any library or classroom. Cushman's ability to bring history to life in a way that is both accessible and engaging is truly remarkable. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction or women's studies...

List of books similar to "The Midwife's Apprentice":

Robin McKinley

The Hero and the Crown

This Newbery Medal-winning book tells the story of Aerin, a princess who seeks to prove her worth by becoming a hero. She must face dragons, curses, and her own insecurities, much like Alyce in The Midwife's Apprentice.

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Elizabeth George Speare

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Set in 17th-century Connecticut, this Newbery Medal-winning novel follows Kit, a young woman accused of witchcraft. With the help of her friends, she must clear her name and find her place in a new world. Themes of self-discovery and perseverance are explored, similar to The Midwife's Apprentice.

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Sarah McCoy

The Baker's Daughter

This novel tells the story of Elsie, a young baker's daughter in 1940s Germany, and Reba, a journalist in 1970s Texas. Themes of self-discovery, identity, and the importance of community are explored, much like in The Midwife's Apprentice.

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Katherine Howe

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane

This novel tells the story of Connie, a graduate student who discovers a book of spells in her grandmother's house. As she uncovers the secrets of her family's past, she must confront her own beliefs about magic and the supernatural. Themes of self-discovery and the power of knowledge are explored, similar to The Midwife's Apprentice.

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Anita Diamant

The Red Tent

This novel tells the story of Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, from the Bible. The novel explores the lives of the women in Dinah's family, particularly the women who gather in the red tent during their menstrual cycles. Themes of sisterhood, community, and the power of women are explored, similar to The Midwife's Apprentice.

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Kathleen Kent

The Heretic's Daughter

This novel tells the story of Martha Carrier, one of the first women accused and executed in the Salem witch trials. The novel explores the relationship between Martha and her daughter, Sarah, as they navigate the dangerous world of 17th-century Massachusetts. Themes of family, community, and the power of belief are explored, similar to The Midwife's Apprentice.

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