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The Inquisitor’s Tale

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Adam Gidwitz

The Inquisitor’s Tale

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • 13th century

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

620L

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Super Short Summary

In medieval France, three children with magical powers—Jeanne, a prophetic peasant girl; William, a strong monk-in-training; and Jacob, a Jewish boy with healing powers—embark on a journey, pursued by knights, to reach Saint-Denis while fostering mutual understanding despite their diverse backgrounds and overcoming numerous challenges with the help of Jeanne’s resurrected dog, Gwenforte, and others they meet along the way. The book portrays instances of religious intolerance and violence.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Fantastical

Humorous

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

13,165 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz is celebrated for its imaginative narrative, rich historical context, and engaging storytelling. Critics laud its complex characters and thought-provoking themes, but some note the pacing occasionally drags. Overall, it is a captivating read suitable for both young and older audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Inquisitor’s Tale ?

Readers who would enjoy The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz are likely fans of historical fiction and fantasy, especially those who appreciated the mix of adventure and history in books like The Canterbury Tales and The Book Thief. Ideal for ages 10 and up, these readers enjoy rich storytelling with moral complexity and medieval settings.

4.4

13,165 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

JEANNE

A peasant girl with the power of sight and prophecy, characterized by her ability to foresee events and her courageous nature. Her past involves being saved from a snake by her dog, Gwenforte.

A bicultural scholar in medieval France, known for his intellectual prowess and miraculous strength. He often confronts feelings of isolation due to his biracial identity.

A wise and kind child with the ability to heal, whose deep Jewish faith is central to his character. He provides a rational perspective, often standing out from those around him.

A gigantic, intimidating figure who is revealed to be the Archangel Michael, enjoying any earthly pleasures. Despite his human guise, he exudes deep goodness.

The narrator of the story, a younger son who becomes a spy for the Inquisition. His journey involves evolving beliefs about the children he observes.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • 13th century

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

620L

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