The Iron Lily

The Iron Lily by Barbara Willard, published by Longman Young Books in 1973, is a historical juvenile fiction novel written in English and spanning 175 pages. The story follows fifteen-year-old Lilias, who, orphaned in 1557 by the plague, faces rejection from her brother’s widow, who denies her true kinship to the family. This sets Lilias on a lifelong quest to uncover her true parentage.

Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of identity and belonging against the backdrop of historical Europe. As Lilias navigates her challenges, the book delves into her determination to discover her roots and the complexities of her situation. The journey she embarks on reflects the struggles of youth in a turbulent time, making it a poignant exploration of personal history and resilience.