Good Masters! Sweet Ladies!

Schlitz, L. A., & Byrd, R. (2007). Good masters! Sweet Ladies!: Voices from a medieval village. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.

This story highlights 23 unique characters each with their own monologues set in the year 1255 in an English medieval manor. For example, Hugo, the Lord's nephew who must prove himself to his uncle and hunt a wild boar and does so, to Jack, the half-wit who is teased because of his demeanor and kindness towards his friend that is also mocked. Then, of course Giles, the beggar on his crutch, who deceives the gullible for a penny, a morsel,alongside his father and in the end ask the Lord for mercy and to send more fools to them. Each character is between the ages of 10-15 and has a lesson to learn or something to prove. Byrds's detail pen and ink as well as watercolor bring life to each character. This book is perfect for middle grade students that enjoy acting.