The Passion of Dolssa
by Julie Berry
Penguin 2017
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.7 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- faith and doubt
- persecution and injustice
- sisterhood and family
- courage and sacrifice
- friendship
- loyalty
- resilience
About this book
Set in medieval southern France, this richly told historical novel follows Dolssa, a young mystic branded a heretic, and Botille, a resourceful tavern-keeper who risks everything to hide her. Their unlikely friendship unfolds against the shadow of the Inquisition and a seaside village’s careful politics. With lyrical language and multiple voices, the story explores faith, loyalty, and the cost of compassion. Best for teens who enjoy deep, character-driven historical fiction with high stakes and emotional resonance.
Setting: medieval southern France (Occitania), 13th century; a coastal village under the shadow of the Inquisition
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Passion of Dolssa right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Passion of Dolssa. The reading level is AR 6.7, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include faith and doubt, persecution and injustice, sisterhood and family.
How long does it take to read The Passion of Dolssa?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, The Passion of Dolssa takes around 14h to finish. The book has 150,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Passion of Dolssa have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Passion of Dolssa has an AR quiz available, worth 20 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is The Passion of Dolssa?
The Passion of Dolssa has an AR reading level of 6.7, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.