Hawksmaid by Kathryn Lasky - OPTIONAL

Lasky, Kathryn Hawksmaid, 282 p. Scholastic, 2010.  Content: G.  Matty’s life is perfect, even though her country is struggling under the oppressive rule of Prince John, as Richard, the King’s heir, is off on a crusade.  When the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Guy of Gisbourne kill her mother, destroy the castle and bankrupt her father, the only solace she find is in her beloved hawks and in her childhood playmates – Fynn, Rich, Hubie, and Will. As the year go on, the small groups raids for food and money become bolder and their targets become more important.  With the help of the hawks, the band of friends will have a hand is saving their whole country from evil.  This alternate look at the legend of Robin Hood is a good starting place for young girls.  I did have a hard time with the spiritual connection between Matty and her hawks, especially since it became part of a supernatural ending.  EL – OPTIONAL. Cindy, Library Teacher