I would have preferred just a bit more imagery. I enjoyed the tale, and the 170-page book was a quick read. I especially enjoyed the author’s “Afterword,” in which she explains some of the research that went into the book and how she sought to research instances in England of strong women throughout history.

Without spoiling the plot points, I’ll say that besides Maid Marian, Tomlinson creates a subtle explanation for both Robinhood and the Green Man of mythology. Thus, Marian soon takes on the identity of the Green Lady in the Woods. In the meantime, Mary takes on the name Marian, and Agnes dyes her purple cloak green. Mary and Agnes find the elderly Forestwife dead, and Agnes takes over her role, burying the old woman and helping those who need it. The Forestwife, in reality, is a kindly woman who lives in the forest and provides help to all who seek her-a blessing and a burden all at once.

At first, Mary is afraid because of the tales of witchcraft following the legend of the Forestwife, but she quickly learns those tales have been encouraged to keep people away. She runs away to the woods, finding her former wet nurse, Agnes, who has followed her.Īgnes leads them to the realm of the Forestwife. I found this book in the YA section at a used bookstore and picked it up because of its content and its accolades as “an ALA Notable Book.” The Forestwife is a twist on the mythos of Robinhood, following a young woman named Mary as she escapes betrothal to a much older man after a shameful family situation.

The Forestwife by Theresa Tomlinson