Catherine Called Birdy

Cushman, Karen (1994). Catherine, called Birdy. New York: Clarion Books.

Summary: Fourteen-year-old Catherine is tired of the expectations of being a lady of the manor in 13th century England. Envious of the freedom that the villagers seem to have, Catherine rebels against her father's demands, particularly the demand for her to enter a profitable marriage whether she agrees or not.

Additional comments: The story is written as Catherine's diary over the course of the year 1290. Her entries provide insight into medieval life and the rigid gender roles that dictated life. The stubborn and spirited female protagonist tries to break free of her constraints but in so doing learns empathy for the struggles of others and finds peace.