They Came on Viking Ships

Jackie French is a consummate story teller and this book demonstrates everything she does well - likeable characters, complete universe, interesting reflections on society and the chance to learn things. Apart from that, it's a ripping good yarn! And - for this reader - the story is only improved by the participation of Riki Snarfari the wonderful hound.
In some ways, I wish this story had been delivered as an adult novel rather than children's, because the story of Freydis Eriksdottir and her voyage could have been richer than the focus on Hekja the thrall allows. However I have no complaints and am very happy to have read it.
There are footnotes for vocab and cultural notes, which of course can be ignored, but I think the inclusion of show more these makes the book best suited to a YA or middle grade readership.
Very enjoyable. show less

Summary: This is the story of a Scottish wolfhound called Snarf and his owner, Hekja. When Vikings raid Hekja’s village she and Snarf are captured by Freydis Eriksdottir, daughter of the infamous Erik the Red, the founder of the Viking Greenland colony, and half sister to Leif Erikson, usually credited with ‘discovering’ America. Hekja becomes a thrall, a slave, in Greenland, but fiery determination wins the admiration of her mistress. When Freydis leads an expedition to Vinland in what is now North America, Hekja and Snarf go with her.

Jackie French is one of my favorite authors because she writes humor, historical fiction and lots more.