The Language of Fire: Joan of Arc Reimagined - A Lyrical Verse Novel of the Teen Girl Who Became a Fearless Warrior

The Language of Fire is a lyrical, dark, and moving look at the life of Joan of Arc, who as a teen girl in the fifteenth century commanded an army and helped crown a king of France.

This extraordinary verse novel from award-winning author Stephanie Hemphill dares to imagine how an ordinary girl became a great leader, and ultimately saved a nation.

Jehanne was an illiterate peasant, never quite at home among her siblings and peers. Until one day, she hears a voice call to her, telling her she is destined for important things. She begins to understand that she has been called by God, chosen for a higher purpose—to save France.

Through sheer determination and incredible courage, Jehanne becomes the unlikeliest of heroes. She runs away from home, dresses in men’s clothes, and convinces an army that she will lead France to victory.

As a girl in a man’s world, at a time when women truly had no power, Jehanne faced constant threats and violence from the men around her. Despite the impossible odds, Jehanne became a fearless warrior who has inspired generations.

How does a girl with nothing become a warrior with everything to lose?

• Biographical Fiction: Step into the mind of Jehanne d’Arc, the illiterate peasant girl who hears the voice of God and rises to lead a nation.
• Strong Female Protagonist: In a world where women have no power, Jehanne defies all expectations, dons men’s clothes, and commands an army against impossible odds.
• YA Historical Fiction: Perfect for teen readers who love immersive historical worlds, this novel brings fifteenth-century medieval France to vivid, brutal life.
• A Story of Faith: Follow Jehanne’s journey as she struggles to understand her divine calling, wrestling with doubt and destiny to become the hero her country needs.