Book Review: I, Julian

 

I, Julian: The fictional autobiography of Julian of Norwich

The fictional autobiography of Julian of Norwich

by Claire Gilbert

Pub Date 13 Apr 2023 

 John Murray,  Hodder & Stoughton

 Christian  |  Historical Fiction  |  Literary Fiction 

Netgalley and John Murray have provided me with a copy of I Julian for review:

It is in 1347 that the first pestilence rages across the country. In the early years of Julian of Norwich's life, she is confronted with the strangeness of death: first her father, then her husband and her child. She experiences mystical visions when she becomes ill herself. Julian is at risk, however, when the Church actively condemns heretics amid suspicion and menace. 

A medieval woman dares to tell her own story in I, Julian.

In spite of grief, plague, the church, and societal expectations, Julian finds a way to live a life of freedom - as an anchoress, bricked up on the side of a church. Assisted by Thomas, a Benedictine monk from Norwich Cathedral, she writes of her experiences and offers advice to others. As Julian's manuscripts are protected by trusted sisters and passed from hand to hand, it becomes the first book to be written in English by a woman. 

A sensitive, luminous, meditative and powerful fictional portrayal of the life of Julian of Norwich - the mother, mystic, and radical.

I give I, Julian five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!