Estrild is not like the other girls in her Iron Age village. While she is expected to follow tradition, her heart is set on a completely different path: she wants to become a fierce warrior. To achieve her dream, she secretly trains with the help of Varick, an orphan boy who is also an outcast because of his twisted back. In a harsh ancient world where differences are poorly tolerated and the rules of survival are strict, their secret friendship places them both in terrible danger. Inspired by the true archaeological discovery of a two-thousand-year-old bog body in Northern Germany, this suspenseful story blends fascinating history with a gripping mystery. Master storyteller Lois Lowry breathes life into the ancient past, exploring the untold stories of children who dared to be different. Step back in time and uncover a beautifully crafted tale of courage, survival, and the enduring human spirit. You will be captivated by this unique journey into a forgotten world.