A point of view distinctive for two reasons distinguishes this singular and riveting short novel by Henrietta Branford that chronicles the lives of peasants under the harsh and unfair laws of England's ruling classes during the late 14th century. It is unusual to read a historical novel for children that so clearly addresses issues of economic and social justice. But this story of landlord cruelty and peasant unrest leaves no doubt as to where fairness and goodness does and does not lie. Even more unusual is the author's choice for narrator--a hunting dog who spends much of her time with Rufus and Comfort, two of the peasants whose lives are torn apart by their efforts to seek an end to their oppression. The dog is witness to the attempts of Rufus, Comfort, and others in their village to rebel against the landlords for whom they toil without benefit. These events become part of the drama of her life, along with puppies born and gone away, of sometimes running with the wild dogs and wolves. But this dog who knows what it means to run wild also knows loyalty and the touch of human kindness, and the hearth of Rufus and Comfort is where she will always return if she can. An unsentimental, wholly believable narrative voice propels this dramatic story. (Ages 10-12)

"Even readers with little knowledge of (or interest in) British feudal systems and peasant revolts may find themselves engrossed in this unique fictional tale set in 1381 and told from a hunting dog's point of view." — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (starred review)


A Smarties Book Prize Bronze Award Winner

A VOICE OF YOUTH ADVOCATES Honor Book

A KLIATT Editors' Choice

"Branford's subtle, poetic writing . . . evokes both the splendor of nature and the turbulence of the times. The author's remarkable understanding of animal behavior and human tendencies reverberates throughout this eloquent historic tale." — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (starred review)

"The exciting plot . . . never hits a false note as related through the
dog's sensibilities. . . . An ingenious tour de force." — SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL (starred review)