Matilda Bone by Karen Cushman

BIBLIOGRAPHY :
Cushman, Karen. 2000. Matilda Bone. New York: Clarion. ISBN 0395881560

PLOT SUMMARY:
Fourteen year old orphan, Matilda sent to live as an apprentice to a bone setter in medieval England finds that her skills of reading, writing and factoring are not needed. Matilda struggles to learn and use the new manual labor skills necessary for her new occupation. Matilda struggles with the idea that her previous pampered life is over and a new life style is to take its place.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This historical fiction account of medieval medicine is from a female protagonist’s point of view and includes other female characters. It includes an Author’s note and references of the book sources the author consulted for accuracy. The author explains the strangeness of women bonesetters and physicians with the comment from Matilda’s new guardian, Peg. “This,” said Peg to Matilda as she stirred, “is our physician, Margery Lewes – a woman, of course, for no true physician would work here on the alley with barbers and bonesetters.” Accuracy is also seen in the teenage thoughts included in italics made by Matilda. “Of course, Mistress Peg,” Matilda said. I sincerely doubt it, Mistress Peg, Matilda thought. Medieval medicinal practices of using astrology, observing a patient’s urine and using leeches to remove bad blood are included in the accounts of traditional medicinal practices of the day.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S):
Starred Review from SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A fascinating glimpse into the colorful life and times of the 14th century. … Cushman's character descriptions are spare, with each word carefully chosen to paint wonderful pictures. This humorous, frank look at life in the medical quarters in medieval times shows readers that love and compassion, laughter and companionship, are indeed the best medicine.”

Review from HORNBOOK: “Before her arrival at the Bonesetter's abode where she is to take up residence and labor, Matilda's life with Father Leufredus was steeped in prayer, and her very seriousness accounts for much of the novel's humor. In an afterword Cushman reveals her concern that her research on the medicine of the day not overwhelm her story; the truth is, this information is just as interesting as Matilda's tale.”

Review from VOICE OF YOUTH ADVOCATES: “Students studying the Middle Ages will find this novel a delightful way to learn about fourteenth-century English town life, and those who enjoy historical fiction will treasure the independent spirit of young Matilda Bone.”

AWARDS
School Library Journal Best Books of the Year 2000

CONNECTIONS
Other books by Karen Cushman:
Cushman, Karen. 2002. Catherine called birdy. ISBN 0758702469
Cushman, Karen. 2002. The midwife’s apprentice. ISBN 0758702027

Activities
*Encourage students to re-enact Matilda Bone in Readers Theatre or a skit.
*Research Medieval clothing and have students create poster presentations.

*Discuss the history of medicine and the role of women in medicine. Research and create a timeline of women in medicine.