THE TORCHBEARER follows THE SWORDSMAN as the second book of the WINDOW TO YESTERDAY series. What is it like to be so different? Not just different. To be told you can't do things others can do. Because you're different. And they won't let you go home. Well, they let you go there, but they say your home isn't really yours. And they don't allow you to do things. Even there. So home isn't really home. So you go somewhere new, where no one knows you. And you make friends. But then they say you're different - same story and worse - that you're evil. It's hard to believe what they accuse you of... When they attack others like you, do you run? Or fight? There are a lot more of them than you. The answer: it depends. On the details. Then you'll understand. "The Torchbearer is a beautiful entrée into the fascinating and often astonishing world of Jewish life during the Middle Ages. Jews traveled more than most other communities, spoke many languages, and served invaluable roles in both the Christian and Muslim worlds. This book brings this universe to life in all its complexity through an engaging narrative with adventure, surprise and intrigue." - Dr. Reuven Firestone, Regenstein Professor in Medieval Judaism and Islam at Hebrew Union College and Affiliate Professor of Religion at the University of Southern California "Ever wonder what life was like for a Jewish kid during the First Crusade? Well, now you can find out! Weaving in a tremendous amount of research, Jeff Lefkowitz has created a living world that spans both the Muslim and Ashkenazi lands ... What a fabulous addition to the Jewish educational landscape." - Dr. Rachel Lerner, Dean, Graduate Center for Jewish Education, American Jewish University "Once again, Jeff Lefkowitz lights the way for teens toward a deeper understanding of Jewish life and history. The Torchbearer, his latest addition to the Window to Yesterday series, is a well-researched, relevant, and marvelous journey. Truly fun to read." - Dr. Bruce Powell, Head Emeritus, de Toledo High School and co-author of Raising A+ Human Beings "I definitely recommend this book! Teenagers and adults alike will enjoy David's journey. The story unfolds through the eyes of young characters; teenagers will cheer for them and truly connect with them." - Carolyn Kessler, senior at The Emery/Weiner School, Houston, Texas