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Just a Girl
Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a truly extraordinary woman. And after 2000 years, the story of her brave and remarkable life continues to inspire and enthrall us, as that young woman from Nazareth was never 'just a girl'.
In 72 AD, as the Roman army pillages Judea and destroys their village, fourteen-year-old Judith hidesher younger sister, her great-grandmother Rabba, a Roman slave called Caius and an unwilling goat in a cave used to store food.
Judith's skills will save them as wolves - and humans - threaten the group during that long, icy winter. There are feasts to enjoy as they listen to Rabba tell stories of her youth; of her wealthy marriage in Jerusalem and her life in Nazareth as a child.
But there is one story Rabba will not tell, no matter how much they coax her. It is the story of Maryiam, her beloved friend who faced the scandal and shame of an unwed pregnancy and the anguish of watching the crucifixion.
And it is Maryiam's example that will give Judith, her sister and Caius the courage to step beyond their refuge. Because like Judith, Maryiam of Nazareth was never 'just a girl'.
In 72 AD, as the Roman army pillages Judea and destroys their village, fourteen-year-old Judith hidesher younger sister, her great-grandmother Rabba, a Roman slave called Caius and an unwilling goat in a cave used to store food.
Judith's skills will save them as wolves - and humans - threaten the group during that long, icy winter. There are feasts to enjoy as they listen to Rabba tell stories of her youth; of her wealthy marriage in Jerusalem and her life in Nazareth as a child.
But there is one story Rabba will not tell, no matter how much they coax her. It is the story of Maryiam, her beloved friend who faced the scandal and shame of an unwed pregnancy and the anguish of watching the crucifixion.
And it is Maryiam's example that will give Judith, her sister and Caius the courage to step beyond their refuge. Because like Judith, Maryiam of Nazareth was never 'just a girl'.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2018
6 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Jackie French
321 books870 followersJackie is an award-winning writer, wombat negotiator and the Australian Children’s Laureate for 2014-2015. She is regarded as one of Australia’s most popular children’s authors, and writes across all genres - from picture books, history, fantasy, ecology and sci-fi to her much loved historical fiction. In her capacity as Australian Children’s Laureate, ‘Share a Story’ will be the primary philosophy behind Jackie’s two-year term.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 28, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
With so many great female figures in history, known and unknown, they should never be considered as ‘just a girl’. With such a meaningful title, prolific Australian storyteller Jackie French explores the hidden history of Mary or Maryiam, mother of Jesus. In this process, French presents the compelling story of Judith, a young girl finding her feet at a time of great change. Just a Girl is perfect for upper school readers, but adult readers will also appreciate this finely researched tale.
Along with figures such as Joan of Arc, Mary of Nazareth is perhaps one of the most famous women in history. Respected author Jackie French has delved into the history books to produce a tale that intertwines the life of Maryiam, mother of Jesus, with a young fourteen year old Judea girl. At first the link between the two is unclear, but as the story progresses we learn of how and why these two women are inextricably linked. French transports the reader to the time 72 AD, the roman army has charged villages and Judea. Young Judith manages to escape their clutches and seeks shelter in a cave, once used for food stores. In this cave, Judith is joined by her sister, great-grandmother and later on a roman slave called Caius. For food, the group rely on a sole goat and their resourcefulness. This is a perilous time, defined by ill weather, animal threats and further attacks from the roman army. But somehow this brave group survives and as the days pass by, Judith’s great grandmother Rabba reveals a fascinating personal history which includes her early days, her marriage and eventually her defining time in Nazareth. These are all told via campfire effigies. But Judith and Caius are drawn to the story of Mary of Nazareth, mother of Jesus, who also happened to be friends with Rabba. Rabba is reluctant to reveal this painful story, as it is marred by scorn and incredible loss. Maryiam’s inspiring tale changes Judith and Caius’ outlook and together they find the courage from within the step out of the refuge of their cave and into the new world.
Just a Girl is a book aimed at readers aged from ages 10 up, but it can easily be enjoyed by an older audience. Just a Girl offers a good balance of history, touches of religion and introspection. But most of all, this inspiring tale is a welcome source of encouragement to young females, to help them see that no matter where you are situated, the time, place, or religious creed, you are never ‘just a girl’ you can be and so much more!
Although I read the proof copy of Just a Girl, the finished product is striking. The purple cover with the bright gold shining star of Bethlehem that adorns the front is certainly eye-catching. The story within this book is bold too. Readers will discover a rich story of ancient history, resurrected real life historical figures, combined with moments of pulse pounding danger and unity. This is a full narrative for a young reader to lap up and unconsciously learn about our all important past along the way. I must urge readers of Just a Girl to devote some time to reading the extensive author notes contained at the back of this book. This is a fascinating bonus extra, covering everything you need to know on languages, food, betrothals, clothing and even recipes of the time to try. I was impressed by this unexpected bonus gift.
Initially, I was wondering where Just a Girl was going to go, I was immediately expecting a story based on Mary of Nazareth, who we know as the mother of Jesus. However, Judith’s story is quite fascinating. It is blindingly obvious Jackie French has devoted much time and effort into drawing on her primary sources to weave historical fact around an accessible narrative. I did feel a little embarrassed that as an adult, I know very little about Maryiam myself, or the time period which this story is set. The influences and behaviour of the roman army appalled me. It makes Judith’s story of survival quite amazing indeed! But what I enjoyed most about Just a Girl was the use of the oral stories, passed on by Judith’s great grandmother to both Judith and Caius. These rousing anecdotes prove to be life changing for the characters of this book.
The spirit is strong with this heartfelt tale of strength, overcoming adversity, inspiration, survival and power. In the capable hands of experienced storyteller Jackie French, let Just a Girl carry you away to the sights, sounds and moving experiences of Judith, her family and companions in times past. I recommend Just a Girl to all open minded readers, of any age.
*I wish to thank Harper Collins Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Just a Girl, is book #120 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
With so many great female figures in history, known and unknown, they should never be considered as ‘just a girl’. With such a meaningful title, prolific Australian storyteller Jackie French explores the hidden history of Mary or Maryiam, mother of Jesus. In this process, French presents the compelling story of Judith, a young girl finding her feet at a time of great change. Just a Girl is perfect for upper school readers, but adult readers will also appreciate this finely researched tale.
Along with figures such as Joan of Arc, Mary of Nazareth is perhaps one of the most famous women in history. Respected author Jackie French has delved into the history books to produce a tale that intertwines the life of Maryiam, mother of Jesus, with a young fourteen year old Judea girl. At first the link between the two is unclear, but as the story progresses we learn of how and why these two women are inextricably linked. French transports the reader to the time 72 AD, the roman army has charged villages and Judea. Young Judith manages to escape their clutches and seeks shelter in a cave, once used for food stores. In this cave, Judith is joined by her sister, great-grandmother and later on a roman slave called Caius. For food, the group rely on a sole goat and their resourcefulness. This is a perilous time, defined by ill weather, animal threats and further attacks from the roman army. But somehow this brave group survives and as the days pass by, Judith’s great grandmother Rabba reveals a fascinating personal history which includes her early days, her marriage and eventually her defining time in Nazareth. These are all told via campfire effigies. But Judith and Caius are drawn to the story of Mary of Nazareth, mother of Jesus, who also happened to be friends with Rabba. Rabba is reluctant to reveal this painful story, as it is marred by scorn and incredible loss. Maryiam’s inspiring tale changes Judith and Caius’ outlook and together they find the courage from within the step out of the refuge of their cave and into the new world.
Just a Girl is a book aimed at readers aged from ages 10 up, but it can easily be enjoyed by an older audience. Just a Girl offers a good balance of history, touches of religion and introspection. But most of all, this inspiring tale is a welcome source of encouragement to young females, to help them see that no matter where you are situated, the time, place, or religious creed, you are never ‘just a girl’ you can be and so much more!
Although I read the proof copy of Just a Girl, the finished product is striking. The purple cover with the bright gold shining star of Bethlehem that adorns the front is certainly eye-catching. The story within this book is bold too. Readers will discover a rich story of ancient history, resurrected real life historical figures, combined with moments of pulse pounding danger and unity. This is a full narrative for a young reader to lap up and unconsciously learn about our all important past along the way. I must urge readers of Just a Girl to devote some time to reading the extensive author notes contained at the back of this book. This is a fascinating bonus extra, covering everything you need to know on languages, food, betrothals, clothing and even recipes of the time to try. I was impressed by this unexpected bonus gift.
Initially, I was wondering where Just a Girl was going to go, I was immediately expecting a story based on Mary of Nazareth, who we know as the mother of Jesus. However, Judith’s story is quite fascinating. It is blindingly obvious Jackie French has devoted much time and effort into drawing on her primary sources to weave historical fact around an accessible narrative. I did feel a little embarrassed that as an adult, I know very little about Maryiam myself, or the time period which this story is set. The influences and behaviour of the roman army appalled me. It makes Judith’s story of survival quite amazing indeed! But what I enjoyed most about Just a Girl was the use of the oral stories, passed on by Judith’s great grandmother to both Judith and Caius. These rousing anecdotes prove to be life changing for the characters of this book.
The spirit is strong with this heartfelt tale of strength, overcoming adversity, inspiration, survival and power. In the capable hands of experienced storyteller Jackie French, let Just a Girl carry you away to the sights, sounds and moving experiences of Judith, her family and companions in times past. I recommend Just a Girl to all open minded readers, of any age.
*I wish to thank Harper Collins Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Just a Girl, is book #120 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
July 31, 2019
Reread for Readers Cup.
(Not) just a girl. No one ever is.
(Not) just a girl. No one ever is.
August 4, 2019
This book was a wonderful story. A Jewish grandmother and two of her granddaughters are in hiding in 70CE and survive the massacre of their village by the occupying Romans. They care for an injured Roman slave who shares his Christian faith with them. I don’t think I can do credit in a review to how beautifully this depicts what was happening in this period and it doesn’t shy away from those harsh realities but ultimately was a very hopeful book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2018
Another wonderful book by Jackie French.
It wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but it was a fabulous read.
It wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but it was a fabulous read.
August 8, 2022
That cave must’ve been a good cave cause they spent the entire book there
January 14, 2022
There are a few different reasons why I give a book 5 stars. This one got all the stars for the way it opened me up to new things - it taught me so much, and it made me think. Really looking forward to exploring more on the topic and exploring more Jackie French.
February 20, 2019
Didn't do much for me, probably a bit old for it. The Maryiam stuff felt a bit forced and didn't add much to the overall story.
July 9, 2018
ARC kindly provided by Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review.
My rating: 3/5 stars
Just A Girl is a heartfelt novel that follows the blossoming of a young, budding girl, as she explores the world around her without the constraints of her patriarchal society. Looking from the outside in, we get to revel in her moment of epiphany when after all of her losses and achievements, she finally comes to realise that she is what she makes herself to be and that no girl, is ever just a girl.
This is an exceptional story, made even better by the fact that Jackie French has woven into the story an intriguing backdrop to the revered figure of Mary, Mother of Jesus. What made me regard this novel in a higher manner than I would have otherwise, is that Jackie French did not yield to the disheartening mold of traditional stereotypes, but instead chose to create her own, by placing a high value on the equal significance of all women and men.
Coupled with the setting of the novel in an early time period – when houses were still made of clay and people used to write with traditional ink and quills – the events of the novel, namely bloodshed and survival, show the true capacity of the capabilities that we humans possess; we can both kill and give life, destroy and create. Through this, Jackie French thoroughly captures the essence of the power that hums within us.
In her novel, Jackie French does not only focus on the virtuous qualities that are the foundation of our humanity, but also explores racism, injustice, prejudice & inequality, our hurtful attitudes that also make us humans.
Despite the suspense that it brought with it, I loved the ending because it allowed my mind to roam around the different possibilities for what could’ve happened next. Through this Jackie French effectively engages her audience with her writing, in the best possible way and it makes her work so much more memorable!
As I have stated in my previous reviews of Jackie French, what makes her novels stand out from the rest is that she does not shy away from the harsh reality of mankind, but instead chooses to stand up to it and face it head on – and this is exactly what she has done in Just A Girl. I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate Jackie French on finishing yet another remarkable novel.
Shreema
My rating: 3/5 stars
Just A Girl is a heartfelt novel that follows the blossoming of a young, budding girl, as she explores the world around her without the constraints of her patriarchal society. Looking from the outside in, we get to revel in her moment of epiphany when after all of her losses and achievements, she finally comes to realise that she is what she makes herself to be and that no girl, is ever just a girl.
This is an exceptional story, made even better by the fact that Jackie French has woven into the story an intriguing backdrop to the revered figure of Mary, Mother of Jesus. What made me regard this novel in a higher manner than I would have otherwise, is that Jackie French did not yield to the disheartening mold of traditional stereotypes, but instead chose to create her own, by placing a high value on the equal significance of all women and men.
Coupled with the setting of the novel in an early time period – when houses were still made of clay and people used to write with traditional ink and quills – the events of the novel, namely bloodshed and survival, show the true capacity of the capabilities that we humans possess; we can both kill and give life, destroy and create. Through this, Jackie French thoroughly captures the essence of the power that hums within us.
In her novel, Jackie French does not only focus on the virtuous qualities that are the foundation of our humanity, but also explores racism, injustice, prejudice & inequality, our hurtful attitudes that also make us humans.
Despite the suspense that it brought with it, I loved the ending because it allowed my mind to roam around the different possibilities for what could’ve happened next. Through this Jackie French effectively engages her audience with her writing, in the best possible way and it makes her work so much more memorable!
As I have stated in my previous reviews of Jackie French, what makes her novels stand out from the rest is that she does not shy away from the harsh reality of mankind, but instead chooses to stand up to it and face it head on – and this is exactly what she has done in Just A Girl. I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate Jackie French on finishing yet another remarkable novel.
Shreema
March 31, 2019
Instead of working as a fourteen-year-old shepherdess (and huntress), Judith would likely be married by now if the men in her village hadn't gone off to fight the Romans. But an attack on her village leaves Judith with the sole responsibility of caring for her sister and great-grandmother. Perhaps while they're in hiding, Judith's great-grandmother will finally make a confession regarding a young woman she once knew—Maryiam of Nazareth—in Just a Girl by author Jackie French.
So. Despite the tagline on this novel's cover and the way the publisher's blurb leads off, this is not a story centered on Mary, the mother of Jesus. This is Judith's story, with a key Maryiam-related theme woven in, mostly toward the end.
Also, despite the cute, rather carefree splash of the cover design, and the fact that it's technically a children's book (for ages ten and up), this isn't a cutesy and carefree or childish tale. It's a wartime story of a teenaged heroine with unpretentious strength, resilience, know-how, and more she needs to learn. A story of life and death, danger and survival. It's tragic and rather gritty in places, with poignant nuggets that either sting or shine. Or both.
Now, there's a lot of description about the characters' normal household/hideout tasks. Not all of those slower parts had me riveted the whole time, but they do add to the novel's historical value. And I appreciate the resolute but open conclusion, though it ended just a beat or two too early for me, somehow.
Nevertheless, children, young adults, and adults alike can get something worthwhile out of this inspiring historical novel. And don't skip the Author's Note in the back.
So. Despite the tagline on this novel's cover and the way the publisher's blurb leads off, this is not a story centered on Mary, the mother of Jesus. This is Judith's story, with a key Maryiam-related theme woven in, mostly toward the end.
Also, despite the cute, rather carefree splash of the cover design, and the fact that it's technically a children's book (for ages ten and up), this isn't a cutesy and carefree or childish tale. It's a wartime story of a teenaged heroine with unpretentious strength, resilience, know-how, and more she needs to learn. A story of life and death, danger and survival. It's tragic and rather gritty in places, with poignant nuggets that either sting or shine. Or both.
Now, there's a lot of description about the characters' normal household/hideout tasks. Not all of those slower parts had me riveted the whole time, but they do add to the novel's historical value. And I appreciate the resolute but open conclusion, though it ended just a beat or two too early for me, somehow.
Nevertheless, children, young adults, and adults alike can get something worthwhile out of this inspiring historical novel. And don't skip the Author's Note in the back.
August 11, 2020
3 1/2 stars.
Hmm I must have only read the first few lines of the summary before I decided to read this.
“Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a truly extraordinary woman. And after 2000 years, the story of her brave and remarkable life continues to inspire and enthrall us, as that young woman from Nazareth was never 'just a girl'. Who was Mary of Nazareth, the most famous woman in all of history?”
Needless to say, I thought this was a book about Mary. It’s not. It’s still an interesting read and as always Jackie French brings an authenticity to her writing that is quite lovely.
Judith lives with her mother, grandmother and sisters in Judea, 71 AD. Her father and brother are away fighting the Romans. Aged 14, she is betrothed to a man she barely knows and is what we would call a tomboy - sure of eye and deadly with a slingshot. Her grandmother knew a girl in her youth named Maryiam, aka Mary, and Judith is keen to hear more about her. And we get to find out a bit more about her but not much. This is Judith’s story and it is an empowering one which teenage historical fiction fans would probably enjoy.
Hmm I must have only read the first few lines of the summary before I decided to read this.
“Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a truly extraordinary woman. And after 2000 years, the story of her brave and remarkable life continues to inspire and enthrall us, as that young woman from Nazareth was never 'just a girl'. Who was Mary of Nazareth, the most famous woman in all of history?”
Needless to say, I thought this was a book about Mary. It’s not. It’s still an interesting read and as always Jackie French brings an authenticity to her writing that is quite lovely.
Judith lives with her mother, grandmother and sisters in Judea, 71 AD. Her father and brother are away fighting the Romans. Aged 14, she is betrothed to a man she barely knows and is what we would call a tomboy - sure of eye and deadly with a slingshot. Her grandmother knew a girl in her youth named Maryiam, aka Mary, and Judith is keen to hear more about her. And we get to find out a bit more about her but not much. This is Judith’s story and it is an empowering one which teenage historical fiction fans would probably enjoy.
January 7, 2022
I enjoyed being transported to another time and place, especially as we are in isolation at home with many worries on my mind. I could picture the scenes Jackie created vividly in my mind and loved the development of the characters throughout the book with the twists and turns.
My favourite quotes:
‘Life twists you like a stream: trickling you in one direction, then throwing you about in flood.’
‘You fought for your family. I saved you because you have the strength of love. I saw Mariam in that courtyard and knew that love is stronger than any army. Not even the Pharisees and Romans have the power to steal love. You were never just a girl.’
‘But I did know this: through all I had learned here, I would walk with love. Love for those who walked with me, and those who had gone before me; love for my children yet to come, maybe; and love for my God….I would walk with courage, for love will give you bravery even in the hardest times’.
I needed to hear this message today and it has filled my heart with peace xox
My favourite quotes:
‘Life twists you like a stream: trickling you in one direction, then throwing you about in flood.’
‘You fought for your family. I saved you because you have the strength of love. I saw Mariam in that courtyard and knew that love is stronger than any army. Not even the Pharisees and Romans have the power to steal love. You were never just a girl.’
‘But I did know this: through all I had learned here, I would walk with love. Love for those who walked with me, and those who had gone before me; love for my children yet to come, maybe; and love for my God….I would walk with courage, for love will give you bravery even in the hardest times’.
I needed to hear this message today and it has filled my heart with peace xox
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2024
If you're interested in Judean life around the time of the destruction of Jerusalem, this book gives a good feel for the way of life and the effect of the Roman wars on the land and people.
Jackie French does have a way of stepping over the line every so slightly in her books with some of the details of the nitty gritty parts of life, and this one she does so with the night before marriage talk. However, it is unclear exactly what she meant and would certainly pass over a young person's head.
I'll be recommending it to my early teenage daughters to read, and I do look forward to discussing it with them.
Jackie French does have a way of stepping over the line every so slightly in her books with some of the details of the nitty gritty parts of life, and this one she does so with the night before marriage talk. However, it is unclear exactly what she meant and would certainly pass over a young person's head.
I'll be recommending it to my early teenage daughters to read, and I do look forward to discussing it with them.
September 9, 2018
Inspiring historical fiction with strong female characters. Took me to a far away place with Mary, the mother of Jesus, a story within the story. If you are hoping for a story just about Mary you will not be disappointed by meeting Judith along the way. Jackie French, an absolute master storyteller, creates a fascinating sense of place with strong characters. I could well have been with them eating dried figs and listening to Rabba’s stories. I would be only too happy to read a sequel and learn more of Judith....
May 26, 2019
I was wary going into this book as anything that could be religious puts me off, but knowing Jackie French wrote it, was enough for me to give it a go. This was an interesting look way back in history to 79AD. I learnt a lot about the time that I was unaware of. The female characters were all extremely strong and the slave they save was a great addition to their team when it came to helping them survive. I enjoyed this far more than I thought I would.
February 16, 2020
I initially picked this up to read because the blurb on the back talked about the girl Myriam or Mary and her betrothed Joseph and the scandal they encountered. I was disappointed that this part was only mentioned very late into the story. The idea of writing to ensure young girls are empowered and know they are more than just a girl is to be celebrated and this book does do that but unfortunately overall I was disappointed with this.
October 15, 2022
This was a beautiful book, that is not only interesting to read, but also teaches important history, and valuable life lessons, for anyone who reads it. It shows what people of the 70AD's went through and believed in at the time. This book made me laugh, smile, cringe, and made me want to cry. I got close to all the characters and understood what they were going through. This book is sure worth reading.
November 8, 2018
Reader Dorothy King: Just loved this book, simply written book telling such an amazing story, and in particular I loved at the end the continued "Author's Notes" information. This is the 3rd Adult fiction book by Jackie French that I have read and she is now one of my favourite Australian Authors !
July 20, 2020
Like someone else (I wonder if we competed?) I read this for readers cup. Unlike this person, I could barely get through this book. The only reason it is not a 1 star is because at least the message was good. To the bare minimum: this book is a little about when a girl and her grandma are stuck in a cave. I won’t go into details- but I hated this book and found it stupidly dull.
July 29, 2020
really really bad, in a cave the whole time. Would've been better if Judith and Caius were together, but still trash. Worst book I've ever read, had to read it for school :( really repetitive, Maryiam thing added nothing to the plot, kind of forced. Best character was Caius cos he loved a frog. Judith seems really stuck up. just a dumb book in general.
August 28, 2022
A sad but beautiful story of a young Jewish girl and her grandmother encountering a tragedy in their village, waiting out the danger inside a cave from the intruding Romans, as they learn how to survive and hear stories about Jesus's mother Mary.
I did enjoy the book very much but it might be a tad scary for younger readers as it is quite violent in the beginning.
I did enjoy the book very much but it might be a tad scary for younger readers as it is quite violent in the beginning.
April 16, 2019
A very good book for YA readers to understand the impact & links from the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem to the manner in which the Roman invasion changed lives to the birth of Christianity. Told in a believable & easy to read manner. Well written.
June 20, 2018
Review to come...
July 18, 2018
A clever new way to look at a very old story. Really well done.
October 8, 2018
An interesting story of war and survival interwoven with family, love and the story of Mary. The underlying message is we are never just girls, we can do anything we can dare to imagine.
December 26, 2018
Such a perfect Christmas read! ❤️
April 8, 2019
I loved this book. Loved, loved, loved the characters especially the old great grandmother. The book made me smile, cry and think.
June 5, 2019
An adult reading a young adult book doesn't always work … I liked the idea of this, but quite honestly I got bored. Did enjoy the notes at the end of the book though!
December 13, 2019
Vivid indirect retelling of the story of Mary and Joseph with a scene-stealing goat.
November 29, 2020
ARC/RC kindly provided by Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review.
I rate this book a 4.5 stars out of 5.
"Just A Girl" is a book that uses religion (Jewish and Christianity) at a blend that creates an atmosphere of acceptance (even through arguments). The setting, a historical atmosphere, also allows or the development of the acceptance and belief in the cultures used, as well as how they move together.
The lack of response from Rabba about a certain area of her life, and how much it influenced her decisions and the way she is now also added a sense of mystery to her connection with the famous Mary. Mary, a character we never meet and develop with also however influences the story. Her influence and impacts on the Christian culture, for Caius; and her impact on Rabba's confidence and demeanour gives us a sense of her importance. The use of stories from Rabba's life also give us the sense of home and comfort, despite the obvious discomfort of the situation.
The use of an important historical time period also made a unique atmosphere. The book generally has a large atmosphere incorporated in the text, and the use of character and setting also gave the book a "homely" feeling.
I rate this book a 4.5 stars out of 5.
"Just A Girl" is a book that uses religion (Jewish and Christianity) at a blend that creates an atmosphere of acceptance (even through arguments). The setting, a historical atmosphere, also allows or the development of the acceptance and belief in the cultures used, as well as how they move together.
The lack of response from Rabba about a certain area of her life, and how much it influenced her decisions and the way she is now also added a sense of mystery to her connection with the famous Mary. Mary, a character we never meet and develop with also however influences the story. Her influence and impacts on the Christian culture, for Caius; and her impact on Rabba's confidence and demeanour gives us a sense of her importance. The use of stories from Rabba's life also give us the sense of home and comfort, despite the obvious discomfort of the situation.
The use of an important historical time period also made a unique atmosphere. The book generally has a large atmosphere incorporated in the text, and the use of character and setting also gave the book a "homely" feeling.
May 10, 2023
Loved this book by Jackie French. Interesting story of a 14 year old Jewish Girl during the Roman occupation of Jerusalem around 70 years after Jesus' death. There are a lot of layers to this - women taking on men's roles during war, the historical significance, the relationships between people at the time, what is expected of different roles in society. Anyone with an interest in Christian or Jewish history would find this fascinating. The role of women in the bible is a key theme. I have spoken to Jackie French about the book and she was worried it would be too controversial as it challenges some teachings on Jesus' mother Mary. There is a significant amount of historical information given at the end of the book which is nice to have as you do wonder about a few of the historical facts after reading it. Highly recommended.
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