Under the Flag of France: A Tale of Bertrand du Guesclin

"Under the Flag of France: A Tale of Bertrand du Guesclin" by David Ker is a historical story set in 14th-century France, during a time of conflict. It follows Bertrand du Guesclin, a young boy from Brittany who, despite being considered ugly and facing rejection, is destined for something more. The story looks at ideas of courage, fate, and overcoming the odds. At the start, we meet a 14-year-old Bertrand who is sad because he thinks he is ugly and wants to be accepted. During a quiet moment in the Breton countryside, he even wishes for death because his family doesn't seem to like him. However, things change when he hears a beautiful song and then bravely saves someone from a wolf. This shows his true character and hints at his future as someone who protects those who can't protect themselves. A monk named Brother Michael also tells Bertrand that he is meant for great things, setting him on a path from unhappy boy to future hero of France.