The Beatryce Prophecy is not author Kate DiCamillo's latest book, but the latest one I have come across and read. It was published in 2019, which means I'm a few books behind with her, but oh, what joy to read DiCamillo's writing! This is probably the 6th or 7th DiCamillo book I have read over the years, and every single one made me happy to have read it after I was finished. This book is no exception, and in fact, this may be my favorite DiCamillo book yet!
Beatryce is a girl who finds herself in a monastery, covered in dirt, laying next to a very spirited goat, in the barn, not knowing who she is or where she has come from. Brother Edik, the monk who discovers her in the barn, also learns she has a very dangerous secret, one that has her being hunted by soldiers of the king. Brother Edik shaves her head to help her blend with the rest of the monks, but when word spreads in the monastery of her secret, she is sent out into the woods and told never to return. What transpires changes the lives of everyone - Beatryce, Brother Edik, the goat...the entire kingdom!
DiCamillo asks near the end of this book whether this story is taking place in the past or the future. No matter, because whenever it is taking place this book is magic! DiCamillo is a master storyteller, and her writing will absolutely put hope and joy in your heart! Artist Sophie Blackall's drawings further enhance the beauty of this book. I love this story, and almost started it over as soon as I finished the last page. Treat yourself - more than once, even - and read this (or any!) DiCamillo offering! 5 paws!
