Magic in the Margins: A Medieval Tale of Bookmaking

Simon was an orphan, the son of peasants. He was keen-minded and quick and soon learned the ways of the scriptorium, of the illuminated manuscripts. In fact, he was such a fast learner, he felt ready to draw pictures of his own in his teacher’s books. But first, the monastery’s father tells him, he must learn how to capture mice.

Prolific author W. Nikola-Lisa and acclaimed illustrator Bonnie Christensen combine talents to create their own illuminated story about patience, talent, and the imagination. |

Many children . . . will be drawn in by the appealing story of a child's empowerment and the glimpse of the medieval world. Christensen extends the story with strong, clear scenes, bordered by botanical patterns and executed in ink and egg-tempura pigments, just like the monks used. A final word about the time period closes this solid title, which is sure to find a place in the classroom.

Booklist, ALA
"[A]uthor...and illustrator...combine talents to create their own illuminated story." MBR December 2007 Midwest Book Review