Lionclaw by Nancy Springer

Springer, Nancy. Lionclaw: A Tale of Rowan Hood. New York: Philomel, 2002.

In this sequel to Rowan Hood, we find out more about the feminine minstrel Lionel who is part of Rowan's band. He deals with a father who hates him and his own insecurities.

What I thought: This book certainly puts the medieval era in perspective. Lionel's father disowned him and even goes so far to put a price on his son's head. Why? Lionel, though he is big and strong, would rather play his harp than learn to sword fight. Rowan and her friends certainly turn stereotypes on their heads. Rowan would rather be an outlaw. Effie prefers to forget that she's a princess.