FORTUNE’S FOOL

Wearied of whippings and scorn, a young Fool escapes his overlord and sets out in search of a more congenial employer in this robust 14th-century tale. Conrad has plenty of company on his quest—notably his beloved Christa, a serving girl who disguises herself as his apprentice, and Grock, a sweet-souled “natural” fool—and they face plenty of challenges on the road. Even in disguise Christa is the recipient of plenty of ardent looks (particularly from monks) and innuendo, but thanks to ready wits and strong allies the travelers triumph over all human-related hazards just as they manage to survive natural ones. Though unshriven (as, at this time, all entertainers were), Conrad is supported as much by his religious faith as he is by his ability to tease and rhyme his way out of the sticky situations his glib tongue also gets him into. Fortune at least seems to be smiling on him at the end, and his distinct narrative voice and sturdy optimism will put readers solidly on his side. (Historical fiction. 11-13)