Title: The Beatryce Prophecy

Written by: Kate DiCamillo

Illustrated by: Sophie Blackwell

Published by: Walker Books

The Beatryce Prophecy is a magnificent ‘folktale’ style middle grade novel set in the Medieval era. The partnership between Kate DiCamillo (who was twice winner of the Newbury Medal) and Sophie Blackwell (who was twice winner of the Caldecott Medal) is a perfect combination. The intricate black and white ink illustrations compliment and highlight the lyrical writing in a magical, atmospheric way that keeps the readers turning the pages. Each chapter begins with an enlarged, decorative, inhabited initial letter, which gives the book a historical, illuminated manuscript feel.

At the heart of the novel is Beatrice who is found by Brother Edik in the barn at the Order of the Chronicles of Sorrowing. He was shocked to discover her curled up next to Answelica, the ferocious goat, clutching the goat’s ear as a comforter.  All the monks are afraid of Answelica, comparing her to a demon, as she bites and has a nasty habit of butting them in the backside sending them flying.

The only thing Beatryce remembers is her name. she has no idea how she got in the barn. When Brother Edik finds out she can read and write he fears for her safety, as it is forbidden for girls to read and write. He shaves her head and disguises her as a young monk. Answelica is her constant companion and protector.

Kate DiCamillo expertly creates her characters with vivid evocative details to vreate an instant image in the reader’s mind, such as Brother Edik’s wandering eye that dances around in its socket and Answelica the goat’s sharp teeth and hard uncompromising head that Beatryce finds comfort in. You are carried through the pages hearing their thoughts, feeling their fears and aspirations. I particularly like the way Kate DiCamillo does not name the antagonists. Throughout the story they are nameless shadows who are hunting Beatryce because of the prophecy documented in the Chronicles of Sorrowing.

The monks are the creators and keepers of the Chronicles of Sorrowing. They record the story of what has happened and things that have not happened yet. The prophecy that was foreseen by Brother Edik and has been previously ignored, states a girl child will come who will unseat a king. This king has been manipulated by an evil counsellor. Beatryce embraces the prophecy and heads off to Castle Abelard to confront the king with the goal of finding her mother. She is joined by a misfit group of characters including Answelica the goat, 12-year-old Jack Dory who had a talent for mimicry, a bee, Brother Edik and Cannoc an old, bearded vagabond who lives inside a tree and claims he used to be king.

The Beatryce Prophecy encompasses the themes of love, courage and determination. It is the ideal book for all KS2 book corners and libraries. A great book to read to the class at the end of the school day.

This book was originally reviewed for Armadillo Magazine

You can buy copies of The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo and Sophie Blackwell from your local bookshop, or online at uk.bookshop.org, an organisation with a mission to financially support local, independent bookshops.