Ages 12 to 14 years. In a world where thousands are dying over matters of religion, where do you go? What do you believe? Who do you put your own faith in? These questions, so relevant to growing up in 2006, are also questions faced by young people hundreds of years ago as they saw their cities and towns destroyed by the Christian Crusades. Based on a true story of a peaceful crusade in 1212 led by children of different faiths, this book traces the lives of three characters as they try to find answers to these persistent questions. Award-winning author Kathleen McDonnell vividly draws a world both dramatically different and remarkable similar to our own. An ideal pick for curriculum links to social studies, history, philosophy and religion.
About the Author :
Kathleen McDonnell is an award-winning playwright and author of adult and children's literature. Born in Chicago and now living in Toronto, she is a frequent contributor to the CBC and other media.
Review :
"1212 was a fascinating story. Kathleen McDonnell did an excellent job of blending fact and fiction to create a gripping tale."
-- "Sarah's Stars"
"[McDonnell] creates a unique historical storyline for each of her characters, but is careful to infuse into their interactions a sense of the timeless emotional drama that is part and parcel of being a teen. This gives 1212 the feeling of being both a fine historical recreation and a very contemporary young adult novel."
-- "Quill & Quire"
"Eventful, exciting and thought-provoking."
-- "Burnaby Now"
"Historically accurate and based on actual events, this book is a wealth of information and questions. I learned a lot about various religious histories."
-- "Teens Read Too"
"It offers readers the chance to explore the possibility of understanding and peace between world factions that to this day are still at war... Highly recommended."
-- "CM Magazine"
"McDonnell brings the period alive, and her three characters provide engaging access points into the complicated history."
-- "Booklist"
"Readers interested in religious history and European history will appreciate McDonnell's fine work."
-- "Kliatt"
"The novel is filled with bloody adventure and serves to introduce readers to the complex religious world of the middle ages, even as it portrays an idealized and anachronistic vision of theological tolerance."
-- "VOYA"
"The story begs the question that is still being asked throughout the world today... can we find peace for all despite our differences?"
-- "The Brandon Sun"
"This simplification of religious difference is belied by the colourful variety of the stories and characters."
-- "Times Colonist"
"While 1212 is a very demanding read at times, it is also an extremely valuable read as the religious persecutions and tensions throughout the novel mirror many contemporary issues."
-- "Resource Links"
"With its focus on peace and racial and religious tolerance, 1212 is a relevant read for everyone regardless of age."
-- "Books in Canada"
