The Cedar Knot Doll

About the Book

Jean, a French peasant’s son, carves a cedar knot doll from a piece of wood found in the forest. The Marquis’ son takes the doll from the boy. Jean retaliates by punching the young noble, knocking him down and bloodying his nose. For this he is forced to flee. In the woods, he encounters a dark and evil stranger who robs him. At Nevers he is imprisoned for a theft committed by the dark stranger. In prison, he learns about treachery and the goodness of a kindhearted priest. Escaping from prison, he is hidden in a wool wagon, which is stolen by gypsies who teach the boy acrobatics. The gypsies travel to many fairs – trouble follows Jean. He winds up in Avignon. He is taken to the infirmary of the Poor Clares where he meets Father Basil again, and Bordina, a beautiful gypsy girl – whom he helps escape. Jean's family is reunited & Bordina is saved and reunited with her love – Lorenzo.

About the Author

Beth Applegate has written poems, stories, and articles that have appeared in a number of magazines. This is her first book. It grew out of watching a gypsy caravan that traveled the back roads of rural France. Beth lived in France for three years with her army husband, and daughter Nancy.