As she grows up Eloise becomes more and more fascinated by Joan of Arc so when she learns that she is to move to Orleans, the scene of Joan of Arc's greatest triumph, she is delighted. But Eloise is lonely at her new school. She takes refuge by the riverbank. One day she hears a voice, just as Joan had all those years ago and the voice tells her the story of Joan of Arc as it really happened.

It is a tale of great courage and perseverance, loneliness and cruelty. This seemingly ordinary girl is called on by God to put the rightful king on the throne of France, and to save her country from the occupying English. Joan sets about this overwhelming task with unswerving faith and fierce determination until finally she is granted permission to lead the French army against the enemy.

MICHAEL FOREMAN numerous books for children have brought him international acclaim. As well as illustrating traditional and modern stories he also writes and illustrates his own books, including War Boy which won the Kate Greenaway Prize and War Game, which won the Smaries' Prize. He continues his memoirs in After the War was Over. Michael lives with his wife and sons and the family share their time between London and St Ives in Cornwall.

MICHAEL MORPURGO and MICHAEL FOREMAN have created a numver of wonderful children's books together, most recently Farm Boy. Joan of Arc follows the publication of the highly successful Robin of Sherwood and Arthur, High King of Britain. Robin of Sherwood is also published in paperback by Hodder.