The Executioner's Daughter Book

The riveting tale of an executioner's daughter who struggles to find a different path in life

Born into the family of an executioner, Lily has always been sheltered by her mother from the horrors of her father's occupation. But when her ailing mother takes a turn for the worse, Lily is suddenly thrust into the paralyzing role of executioner's assistant. Aside from preparing healing concoctions for the suffering and maimed, Lily must now accompany her father at the town executions, something she has never done before. Though she loves her father, the emotional burden of his disturbing profession is just too much for her to bear. Lily must find a way to change her destiny, no matter the consequences.

Set in medieval England, this well-researched and beautifully written novel tells the story of one girl's fight to rise above her fate.

VOYA

Lily lives with her mother and father in England during the Middle Ages. The family resides outside the high walls that surround the town, and they keep to themselves. Lily's parents maintain an apothecary shop where they prepare herbs for medicinal use, but her father's real occupation is executioner. Lily has little contact with anyone except her parents because her father's job makes others fear and avoid the family. When her mother dies, Lily is forced to become the executioner's assistant. She must help her father when he goes to town to build a gallows and must cut off the hand of a man caught stealing pies. There are many good stories set in the Middle Ages, but this tale is exceptional. The character of Lily is developed well as she gathers herbs, wanders alone in the forest, and tends to injured animals. She eventually becomes friends with John, a boy who is mistreated at home and needs an understanding friend. She teaches him how to care for the animals she nurses, and she compliments him on the good job he does. All occurs against the dark backdrop of her father's job. The author reveals to the reader a side of the Middle Ages that is rarely seen in young adult fiction. Williams does not overdramatize Lily's situation, but she makes it clear that there was an ever-present dark element to the period. The book will appeal to readers with an interest in the Middle Ages, but it is such a good story that many will enjoy it if only they find out about it. This story has a place in any school or public library. VOYA CODES: 4Q 4P M J (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades7 to 9). 2000, Henry Holt, 134p, $15.95. Ages 12 to 15. Reviewer: Sue Krumbein

SOURCE: VOYA, October 2000 (Vol. 23, No. 4)