I loved this book -- and the song transcribed on the back page, which I spent hours deciphering and learning, and still can sing. It's a simple story about generosity and friendship, and how they can overcome fears. ( )

first line: "To tell about Ariane is to try to grow a rose on paper without the touch of sun and moon, rain and snow that make it real and growing."

I owned this book as a child, and found (and reread) it as an adult. A historical novel for children (set in the Middle Ages), this is a pretty little book, illustrated with intricate line-drawings. The overarching themes are forgiveness, and understanding, and gentleness in the face of violence; I can understand why the book left an impression on me in childhood, even though I'm bothered by the passivity of the heroine and the too-tidy ending. ( )