Questions about the book
Back Home
Warning - Spoilers
Why does the farmer Osfrid not know about potatoes?
Potatoes originate from South America and did not arrive in Europe until the middle of the 15th century. It changed the lives of many people, especially peasants, as they could leave the potatoes in the ground. Digging them up later or when they needed them, while other crops could be stolen or pillaged by soldiers.
Interesting film on the potato.
Was Tiffany really a name in medieval times?
There are records of the name being used dating back to the 12th century. It starred as a Greek name before making its way to England. However it sounds like a modern name and that’s why the group was surprised when they found out Tiffany’s name, leading to some suspicion that she was a spy.
Were there windows in medieval times?
There were windows but most were just holes in the wall, not many windows were made of glass, instead people could make their windows from animal horns which were softened and rolled out and let in a bit of light, see a picture here. This happens in the book, when Logan runs through the library full of scrolls and it says, ‘light filtered through opaque slat windows.’
What was the bug that Rylee showed to Logan?
A Ruby-tailed wasp, also known as Chrysis Ignita. They are very beautiful and are solitary creatures which can’t sting you. Here is an example of one.
Why did people wear badges in medieval times?
They were called Livery Badges and people would wear one in support of their leader. In the book Logan sees noblemen wearing different badges. For Alfstan his badge was in the shape of a Boar since that type of badge is linked to where he’s from, Gloucester. To see more check out the link.
What was the tower the group found?
It was a watchtower to protect the surrounding royal forest from local peasants.
The group land in a royal forest which had strict laws around what you could take. The tower was built as a watchtower for soldiers to keep an eye on the surrounding forest and any local peasants taking things they shouldn’t. It could also double as a hunting lodge for the king and any of his lords, the tower found in the book is fictional.
What were tournaments like in medieval times?
They were big celebration events where knights could show off their skills. In the book, Logan enters the foot combat competition and does well for a novice but doesn’t get the prize he’s expecting. See more information about medieval tournaments here.
Did they have cannons in 14th century?
It was a new invention that emerged in the 14th century which changed the battlefield for centuries afterwards. They were not very effective to start with but as improvements in gunpowder and metal happened their range became further and deadlier.
Is Lord Alfstan a real person?
No. He is based off English Lords in the 14th century and in the novel is the Lord of Gloucester.
Where do they end up after going back in time?
In the forest of Dean which is a Royal Forest.
Find out more info here.
Did holding hands mean you’d have to get married in medieval times?
No, that bit is made up in the book. However, giving a gift could be seen as a marriage proposal! Even something as simple as a ring of flowers.