Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

The scene is a manor house in England in 1290 and Catherine, the wilful, stubborn and delightful daughter of Sir Rollo and Lady Aislinn, has been asked, by her brother the monk, to keep a journal and these are her daily entries for one important year in her life.
This is a great book to introduce teens to historical fiction.  Mostly considered a "girl" book, check out some discussion questions, activities and thoughts.  If you are intriguied by castles, the middle ages and cooking.  Check it out.