One Is One (Nautilus)

In 14th-century England, Stephen de Beauville dreams of becoming a knightnot a promising ambition for acontemplative boy with a talent for drawing. Quiet and solitary, Stephen must endure the bitter torments of his brothers and cousins until he finds his first true friend; through that friendship Stephen gains courage to endure the lack of kindness in his life. But believing that Stephen will never possess the valor to be a knight, his father abruptly sendshim away to spend the rest of his life in a monastery.

After a harsh apprenticeship inthe monastery, Stephen realizes he must flee its confines. In a twist of fortune, he becomes squire to a wise knight and then attains knighthood himself. The death of his own young squire causes the twenty-six-year-old Stephen to re-examine his ambitions. In doing so, he makes an important discovery: His journey through dangerous times has instilled in him the strength and self-confidence to find his true place in the world. One is One portrays a man ready to heed his mentor's maxim: Do not be afraid to do what you want to do.

Several of Barbara Leonie Picards many books, including One Is One, have been shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Britains oldest childrens book award.

Praise for One Is One and Barbara Leonie Picard:

Her narratives have the ring of tales told by skald and bard, and her choice of words would fill great halls. Her literary fairy tales are lushly romantic, with poetic language and an almost other-worldly knowledge that informs and enriches them. Open one of her books and read it aloud. See how her words will still echo in the storytelling rooms and libraries that have become our great halls. Janice M. Del Negro

In One is One