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Set as the Roman occupation of Britain gives way to the fear and uncertainty of the Dark Ages, Caldecott’s atmospheric historical novel follows in the formidable footsteps of Rosemary Sutcliff’s The Eagle of the Ninth series. Featuring a strong female protagonist and steeped in the mysticism and tribalism of early Britain, The Short Knife pulsates with intelligence and adventure.
Longlisted for the The CILIP Carnegie Medal 2021
It is the year 454AD. The Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain, throwing it into the chaos of the Dark Ages. Mai has been kept safe by her father and her sister, Haf. But when Saxon warriors arrive at their farm, the family is forced to flee to the hills where British warlords lie in wait.
Can Mai survive in a dangerous world where speaking her mother tongue might be deadly, and where even the people she loves the most can't be trusted?
Publisher: Andersen Press Ltd
ISBN: 9781783449781
Number of pages: 400
Weight: 318 g
Dimensions: 198 x 129 x 24 mm
MEDIA REVIEWS
'A distinctive and engrossing tale' - David Almond
'It is full of thrills and kills ... while not scrimping on plot and character. Caldecott writes with a breezy lyricism ... The story of a divided Britain and the girls' mission to rebuild their family and survive in a country they barely recognise feels relevant and important' - Alex O'Connell, The Times
'Bright and real as the midsummer sunlight, and as powerfully drawn as a sharp, short knife' - Hilary McKay
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