Super Short Summary

Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross tells the story of Joan of Ingelheim, a bright and ambitious girl in the ninth century who disguises herself as a boy to escape her oppressive home and pursue education. Overcoming numerous societal barriers, Joan eventually becomes a highly skilled physician in Rome, ultimately ascending to the papacy while maintaining her male disguise. The novel explores gender roles, perseverance, and social change. The book includes themes of discrimination and violence.