Voices: The Final Hours of Joan of Arc

Joan of Arc is an enduring symbol of French unity and nationalism. She was burned at the stake at the age of 19 for witchcraft and heresy. David Elliott's stunning novel-in-verse documenting her final hours is dazzling in form and function. It brilliantly captures this period in history, specifically the conflict between the French and the English. The unique perspective allows readers to imagine Joan as a child of 13 when she first heard St. Michael the Archangel through the "sacred luminescence." The novel provides perspectives from Joan, her mother, and witnesses, but also objects like Joan's armor, who at one point claims, "I did my job; I did my very best to shield her from the pain of injury." Even the crossbow has a poem. The novel in verse is a perfect way to tell the story of Joan of Arc. Poetry breathes life into the historical period and even if readers already know the story, the diverse voices and perspectives provide further glimpses into the issues of her times. The Author's Note offers a look into the writing of his chosen poetic form. While this may not be a title for everyone, it will certainly have appeal and it's an exceptional example of the genre.