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It’s hard not to be aware of Kate DiCamillo. Prolific and widely beloved, her books are always popping up on award lists and in libraries. And yet, I’ve often struggled to connect with her work. Her stories are typically set in modern times and explore themes that don’t naturally draw me in. Still, I’ve found her books frequently and in excellent condition at library sales. Something about the description of The Beatryce Prophesy intrigued me, and the book is so beautifully printed, I picked up two copies at a library sale. And, I’m glad I did.
The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo is an enchanting new fairy tale lovely for readers of many ages. An absolutely beautiful medieval story organized in six parts, the printed book is embellished with illuminated style marginalia and full-page illustrations by Sophie Blackall. With elegant language, excellent storytelling, and a fabulous plot, this book is a delight.
In the monastery of the Order of the Chronicles of Sorrowing lives a goat named Answelica, known for her fierce temper and cast iron will. “The brothers… would have liked to butcher her,” we are told, “but they were afraid of the ghost of Answelica.” One day, good Brother Edik notices that Answelica is guarding a fevered young girl who can not remember her name and is in need of care. But, as Beatryce heals, it becomes obvious that she is not a normal little girl, and that her presence needs to be hidden.
Much like Lloyd Alexander’s The Iron Ring, Beatryce’s journey is marked by the gathering of unusual companions: an orphan boy, the ever-defiant goat, kind Brother Edik, and a mysterious old man with a storied past. As she presses forward on a perilous path that leads her back toward the very king who wants to destroy her, these companions each have a valuable role to play and a story to tell. The fairy tale echoes the best of Lloyd Alexander, Tonke Dragt, and Gary D. Schmidt’s Straw into Gold, all while feeling fresh and utterly its own.
This story would make a lovely family read-aloud for a wide range of ages. It will appeal to middle grade readers who enjoy fantasy, historical fiction, or simply strong storytelling. Families studying classic fairy tales might find it a compelling modern companion. I also highly recommend the audiobook, which is particularly well performed.
That said, sensitive readers may wish to know about one current running through the story. A dying dark knight is visited by a fearsome angel who commands him to record his regrets in hopes of forgiveness. Beatryce, acting as his scribe, discovers that this is the very knight who killed her tutor and her brothers—and who believed he had killed her as well. These scenes are not graphically told, but they might feel intense for some readers.
Despite its dark edges, The Beatryce Prophecy is, at its core, a tale of love, truth, and the quiet power of words. It is an entertaining and edifying read and a excellent new kind of fairy tale.