This book is suitable for ages 7-14. From birth to death, the lives of medieval Christians were greatly influenced by the Church. To prove their faith, they built massive Cathedrals as great monuments to God. At the same time, Islam was being born and rapidly spreading through the Middle East and Africa. Children will learn about these religions and how they affected the daily lives of the people, as well as: medieval ideas of heaven and hell; Judaism and synagogues; Heretics and the inquisition; how Cathedrals were built; pilgrimages and holy sites; convents and monasteries; and places of worship around the world.

Describes different kinds of castles, their purposes, how they were built, and what it was like to live in a castle, looking particularly at the roles played by women and children.

Describes daily life in Europe during the Middle Ages, looking at the social hierarchy of the feudal system, through which kings and lords became rich while peasants remained poor.

Describes the roles and duties of women and girls of all social classes during the Middle Ages, looking at such areas as medieval dress and beauty, women's rights, and women of power in Europe and other lands.