80 pages • 2 hours read
Adam GidwitzThe Inquisitor’s Tale
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In medieval France, three children with magical powers—Jeanne, a prophetic peasant girl; William, a strong monk-in-training; and Jacob, a Jewish boy with healing powers—embark on a journey, pursued by knights, to reach Saint-Denis while fostering mutual understanding despite their diverse backgrounds and overcoming numerous challenges with the help of Jeanne’s resurrected dog, Gwenforte, and others they meet along the way. The book portrays instances of religious intolerance and violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz is celebrated for its imaginative narrative, rich historical context, and engaging storytelling. Critics laud its complex characters and thought-provoking themes, but some note the pacing occasionally drags. Overall, it is a captivating read suitable for both young and older audiences.
Who Should Read The Inquisitor’s Tale ?
Readers who would enjoy The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz are likely fans of historical fiction and fantasy, especially those who appreciated the mix of adventure and history in books like The Canterbury Tales and The Book Thief. Ideal for ages 10 and up, these readers enjoy rich storytelling with moral complexity and medieval settings.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
620L