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Book Review of Pope Joan

Pope Joan
Pope Joan
Author: Donna Woolfolk Cross
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
reviewed on + 272 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2


This book is loosely based on true events of the early nineth century. During the Dark Ages, very few people could read or write, and it was considered unnatural, even evil, for a girl to want to learn. Joan had an extraordinary mind that was hungry for knowledge. Despite severe punishments, she sought schooling at every turn, eventually disguising herself as a man in order to enjoy the freedom of pursuing her education and her career as a healer. She had to deal with keeping her secret and the danger of her practical questions during a time when questioning anything was seen as heretical.

I loved this book! The story flowed smoothly around events that happened during the period while following the characters and their individual lives as they were influenced or changed by the politics of their times. It was easy to read - you do not get bogged down in the history itself. The author takes you to their world so that you feel you know them. That is what I like most in a book. I definitely enjoyed this book!