From School Library Journal
Grade 4-8-This Newbery Medal winning story, set in medieval times, is about a boy who learns his own strength when he saves the castle and discovers there is more than one way to serve his king.Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From AudioFile
De Angeli's classic was written for middle-grade readers, but this is a children's story the whole family can enjoy because the unabridged production is simple, elegant, robust and finely crafted in every way. Actor Roger Rees is expressive but never overly emotional. (That's a good choice--a sentimental reading would turn off some youngsters and most adults.) Spare, tasteful sound effects (church bells, chant) and touches of specially composed music give an immediate feel of the medieval time and setting. Well-conceived, well-produced, well-performed. S.P. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine

ANNOTATION

A crippled boy in fourteenth-century England proves his courage and earns recognition from the King.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Ever since he can remember, Robin, son of Sir John de Bureford, has been told what is expected of him as the son of a nobleman. He must learn the ways of knighthood. But Robin's destiny is changed in one stroke when he falls ill and loses the use of his legs. Fearing a plague, his servants abandon him and Robin is left alone.

A monk named Brother Luke rescues Robin and takes him to the hospice of St. Mark's, where he is taught woodcarving and—much harder—patience and strength. Says Brother Luke, "Thou has only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it."

Robin soon enough learns what Brother Luke means. And when the great castle of Lindsay is in danger, it is Robin, who cannot mount a horse and ride to battle, who saves the townspeople and discovers there is more than one way to serve his king.

FROM THE CRITICS

School Library Journal

This reading by British actor Roger Rees evokes the medieval atmosphere of Marguerite De Angeli's Newbery award-winning tale about a boy proving his courage.

AudioFile - Susan Pochapsky