In a time of war, a mysterious child appears at the monastery of Sorrowing. Gentle Brother Edik finds the girl, Beatryce, curled in a stall, and holding fast to the ear of Answelica the recalcitrant goat. As the monk nurses Beatryce to health, he uncovers her dangerous secret... A fantastical meditation on fate, love and the power of words to spell the world. 8+ A magical, medevial tale from twice winner of the Newbery Medal Kate DiCamillo.