What was childhood like for mediaeval boys and girls in England? Nicholas Orme draws on a vast range of sources to create a picture of childhood in the Middle Ages.

'Nicholas Orme knows more about medieval childhood than anyone living, and this substantial, hugely enjoyable book is the capstone on thirty years of scholarship.' The Independent 'charming and erudite' The Times 'a triumph of judicious scholarship and common sense ... Orme's is one of the most beautifully and intelligently illustrated academic works I've encountered ... a model of accessible scholarly history.' Atlantic Monthly 'This is one of those pleasingly, absorbingly digressive books ... a book whose subject is of inexhaustible interest.' Financial Times 'Orme's fascinating study reveals medieval society through a keen look at its youngest inhabitants. Meticulous detail and luscious illustrations ... make this an elegant and definitive study.' Publishers Weekly 'informative and entertaining ... this book is a treasure trove, full of gems, even for the non-medievalist.' Literary Review 'What the book identifies again and again in medieval England is an attentiveness to children ... Orme is a clear and persuasive guide to the period.' The Guardian 'a treasure-house of everything to do with medieval children' The Economist Nicholas Orme was professor of history at Exeter University and the author of numerous works on medieval history.