of Lombardy. Dom Thaddeus A priest from a neighboring village in the city where Dolf was lost who joined the Crusade. Dom Anselmus and Dom Augustus Impostors pretending to be monks, and who, under the orders of Boglio, a contact of Anselmus, attempt to sell the children to a slave's market, but fail to do so. Nicolas A young shepherd who, deceived by the fake monks, believed to God's chosen one to lead the Children's Crusade. Carolus Young nobleman who believes he will be crowned king on his arrival in Jerusalem, but unexpectedly dies, before the arrival in Genoa, from appendicitis - a disease which at that time was fatal. His death was a strong blow on Dolf, who cared for him very much. Fredo A robust boy and son of an impoverished knight, he left the crusade before they crossed the alps along with another 800 followers. Hilda Hilda von Marburg, daughter of a count, grew up in the palace of her uncle (the archbishop of Cologne), and the supposed "future queen of Jerusalem". During the Crusade, she became in charge of nursing. Frieda The daughter of a servant, with much knowledge on berries, herbs and root vegetables. Gardulf A baker. With his help, the help of two assistants Frank and Dolf, they made 200 fringes of bread in one night and prevented the children from starving. Wilhelm A chubby boy always willing to help Dolf. Awards and nominations The book won a Gouden Griffel and the European prize for best historical youth book in 1974, and the Prix de la Divulgation historique in 1976. In 2019 it was selected as the classic in that year's "gift a book" campaign, which made it available in paperback for €2,50. Film, TV or theatrical adaptations A movie version directed by Ben Sombogaart went into production in 2005. The film was released in Belgium and the Netherlands on November 15, 2006. It was shown at the Berlin International Film Festival in February 2007, and was released in other regions, in theatres or on DVD between 2008 and 2010. References 1973 science fiction novels Dutch science fiction novels Dutch alternate history novels Dutch children's novels Novels set during the Crusades Media about the Children's Crusade Children's science fiction novels Novels about time travel Children's historical novels Fiction set in the 1210s Novels set in the 13th century 1973 children's books Dutch novels adapted