The Badger Knight by Kathryn Erskine

From National Book Award–winning author Kathryn Erskine (Mockingbird) comes The Badger Knight, a gripping historical novel about courage, friendship, and finding your place in the world.
 
Set in 1346 England, the story follows Adrian, a 13-year-old boy small for his age, an albino, and constantly underestimated. Longing to prove himself, Adrian runs away to join the English army fighting in Scotland. Alongside his best friend Hugh, Adrian confronts the brutal realities of war and the meaning of true bravery.
 
Rich in historical detail and packed with adventure, The Badger Knight is a coming-of-age tale about defying expectations and discovering that courage comes in many forms.
 
⭐ Why You’ll Love It
Written by National Book Award winner Kathryn Erskine.
A rare medieval adventure novel for middle-grade readers.
Themes of courage, resilience, and self-acceptance.
Vivid, historically accurate setting with battles, danger, and friendship.
🎯 Perfect For
Readers ages 10–14 who love historical adventures.
Fans of medieval settings, knights, and coming-of-age journeys.
Classrooms teaching medieval history, courage, or underdog stories.
Readers who enjoyed Catherine, Called Birdy or The Book of Boy.