The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman teaches young readers about resilience, self-discovery, and the power of determination. Through the journey of Alyce, a young girl striving to find her place in the world, the story highlights the importance of hard work, courage, and believing in oneself. It encourages readers to persevere through challenges and embrace growth. This inspiring tale shows that everyone has the strength to shape their own future.

Our curriculum incorporates The Midwife's Apprentice through engaging lessons and practical applications. Here are a few examples:

• Text Analysis and Comprehension: Students will analyze character development, theme, and plot in both books within this unit. They will explore the struggles and triumphs of young people in a medieval setting, comparing and contrasting it with their lives today.
• Historical Context: Students gain insights into the feudal system, the roles and lives of serfs and lords, medieval professions, and daily life during the Middle Ages. This is complemented by map exercises and timelines to situate the stories within the broader historical landscape.
• Creative Writing and Drama: Students will craft their monologues from the perspective of a medieval character or to simulate a day in the life of a character from the books. 
• Critical Discussions and Reflections: Guided discussions prompt students to consider issues like poverty, social classes, and ethics within the medieval context.
• Interdisciplinary Projects: A "Think-Tac-Toe" project grid offers students a choice of creative projects ranging from art and music to culinary experiments that reflect the medieval era.