The Language of Fire by Stephanie Hemphill

While I enjoyed the story itself for the most part, I don't think the author's style of writing fits with verse in general. Relatively short stanzas that don't even rhyme (which isn't usually a problem for me) fill up an unnecessary amount of pages. Where Elliott's novel told Joan of Arc's tale through visually stunning works of written art, Hemphill's book is made up of simple freeform poetry. However, The Language of Fire just fell a little too short for me. I was absolutely blown away by that novel, since it was my first introduction to fiction told through verse. Admittedly, I found myself continuously comparing this novel to David Elliott's Voices that was published back in March of this year. I can't say that I really enjoyed this one as much as I hoped I was going to. Despite the impossible odds, Jehanne became a fearless warrior who has inspired generations.Įven if I can't change the direction of the wind, why must I agree that foul air smells sweet? She runs away from home, dresses in men’s clothes, and convinces an army that she will lead France to victory.Īs a girl in a man’s world, at a time when women truly had no power, Jehanne faced constant threats and violence from the men around her. Through sheer determination and incredible courage, Jehanne becomes the unlikeliest of heroes. She begins to understand that she has been called by God, chosen for a higher purpose-to save France. Until one day, she hears a voice call to her, telling her she is destined for important things. Jehanne was an illiterate peasant, never quite at home among her siblings and peers.

This extraordinary verse novel from award-winning author Stephanie Hemphill dares to imagine how an ordinary girl became a great leader, and ultimately saved a nation. The Language of Fire is a lyrical, dark, and moving look at the life of Joan of Arc, who as a teen girl in the fifteenth century commanded an army and helped crown a king of France.

The Language of Fire by Stephanie Hemphill