Anton here appears to be doing a youth-targetted prequel to her Rashi's Daughters series about the daughters of this renowned 11th century Jewish scholar. The background appears to be well researched, the characters are not unbelievable, and the story-- and its background-- is fascinating, though there are some heart-wrenching moments. If you are interested in the lives of medieval women, medieval Jews, or both, this is worth taking up, though I wouldn't give it a gold star for great writing. ( )

Based on her adult books about the daughters of Biblical scholar, Rashi, Anton introduces Joheved and her sister, Miriam, who are living in 11th century France. Though the book spans years, readers come to know the sisters on superficially, and time and place is all. Anton provides a detailed but never boring look at what life was like at the time for residents of Troyes in general and Jewish girls in particular. In some ways, it’s what one might expect – keeping religious holidays, make a home – but these sisters are also privileged and study the Torah [against their mother’s wishes]. Moreover, Joheved knows the family business, winemaking, and Miriam prepares to be a midwife. Throughout Anton does a masterful job of explaining the intricacies of medieval life, from how a grape is picked to the way parchment is made; why certain amulets are used in childbirth and the system of taxation on wine. With several important female characters besides the sisters, the beautifully shows the rich diversity of women and the lives they lead, even long ago. ( )