For a child poised between Harry Potter and Tolkien, there really is
nothing better than Sutcliff.--The New Yorker
Rosemary Sutcliff is a spellbinder.--New York Times Book Review
The preeminent master of British historical fiction for young
people.--Kirkus Reviews
All three stories are powerful, deep, and memorable; the (original)
Victor Ambrus illustrations infuse further intensity and emotion.--The
Horn Book
Cherished author Rosemary Sutcliff presents three stories of youthful
courage and fidelity in ancient times.
The Chief's Daughter: A Welsh chieftain's daughter helps a young Irish
boy--captured from a raiding party and held prisoner by her father--make
his escape, risking the wrath of her gods and her Clan.
A Circlet of Oak Leaves: A horse-trader is reminded of his past with
the Roman Legions, of the life-changing, secret favor he once did a
friend and the glory he will never be able to openly claim.
A Crown of Wild Olives: A tentative, but caring, friendship is formed
between two young runners, a Spartan and an Athenian, who will compete
against each other for the Olympic Olive Crown and the honor of their
warring nations.
These stories are clever and powerful, the plots twisting and turning
unexpectedly while the characters remain always true to their own moral
codes. Indeed, in each story the characters are full of heart and human
failings--and feelings that transcend time and history.
British writer Rosemary Sutcliff (1920-1992) authored more than
fifty books including The Eagle of the Ninth, The Lantern Bearers,
Sword at Sunset, and Song for a Dark Queen. Acclaimed for her
historical novels for young adults, she won many book awards including
The Carnegie Medal, the UK's oldest and most prestigious book award for
children's writing.
Victor Ambrus has twice won the prestigious Kate Greenaway Gold
Medal for Illustration. He has illustrated over 200 books.
