Eleven

by Donald Samson, Heidi Nisbett (illustrator)

Eleven by Donald Samson is more than a medieval adventure. It is a rich, character-driven tale of perseverance, moral conflict, and personal transformation. Samson’s narrative evokes the tone of timeless historical fiction while balancing intrigue, romance, and human struggle.

In a world of shifting allegiances and shadowy espionage, Benedict must navigate challenges that test his courage, honor, and heart. Readers who love medieval historical fiction, literary adventures, and coming-of-age stories will be captivated by this story of resilience and moral discovery.

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 23, 2024

About the author

For nineteen years I was a Waldorf classroom teacher in grades 1 - 8. I had the pleasure of telling my students a story every day. I was able to share all of my favorite fairy tales, saint stories, fables, myths, and historical biographies depending on the grade. One autumn, I wanted to tell my children a new story, one that had never been told before. The story went on for weeks. The children loved the story so much, they badgered me until I wrote it down for them. Once it was written, I realized it was a well-told tale and a gift for any young reader to enjoy. It was the first book in the Star Trilogy, The Dragon Boy. To learn more about my books, visit my website, www.donaldsamsonbooks.com

Reviews

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Donald Samson’s Eleven is a quiet gem of a YA novel. His first foray into historical fiction, this book is an imaginative and grounded portrait of what life may have been like in a small medieval Swiss town. As the protagonist tries to find his place in the world, his beloved city comes under threat from a neighboring city state—his peaceful world is changed, and he finds himself at the center of a political intrigue with consequences far beyond what he had imagined.
Not only has Samson created a highly likable character for us to follow, but unlike most contemporary middle grade fiction, he writes with the emotional growth of the soul in mind—both of the protagonist and of his reader. Younger audiences will be caught up in the adventure, and older readers will find a wise philosophical thread running through the narrative that gives it depth and resonance.
Based on a true story, this thought provoking coming-of-age tale of bravery and loyalty is a rich and engrossing read for all ages.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb Y/A novel. Decidedly unique in that it weaves in a (secondary) character who is devoted to living a spiritual life, and does so in a graceful way that enriches the story.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We proudly announce that ELEVEN by Donald Samson has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG. This award is a testament to this book's quality and the impact it has had on readers.