Catherine, Called Birdy

Catherine, is a 13 year-old daughter of an English country knight. She is known as "Birdy" for her caged pets. Birdy is a spirited and inquisitive young woman who narrates in diary form the story of her fourteenth year--the year 1290. In this journal, she records the events of her life, particularly her longing for adventures beyond the usual role of women and her efforts to avoid being married off. She writes about her dislike of her brothers, schemes to avoid chores, and an annoyance with her parents. A Newbery Honor Book.