Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal
A fine, authentic, historical tale, valuable for its picture of medieval
times.--New York Herald Tribune
In 14th-century England, Alys de Renneville sits alone in the loft of
her manor house mourning her father and brother who are thought to have
been killed in battle in Scotland. Late one evening, a strange knight
appears and tells Alys that her father and brother are alive and being
held for ransom by the Scots. When no one believes her story, she sets
off secretly to rescue them herself.
Traveling on horseback across the lush countryside and dense cities of
medieval England, Alys is accompanied only by her friend and servant,
Hugh. Alys and Hugh show great courage and determination, but the
journey is arduous and they encounter many delays and hardships along
the way. Will they reach Scotland in time to save Alys's father and
brother?
Her narratives have the ring of tales told by skald and bard, and her
choice of words would fill great halls. Her literary fairy tales are
lushly romantic, with poetic language and an almost other-worldly
knowledge that informs and enriches them. Open one of her books and read
it aloud. See how her words will still echo in the storytelling rooms
and libraries that have become our great halls.--Janice M. Del Negro
Barbara Leonie Picard (1917-2011) was the author of over twenty-five
books, all of which have received praise for the mature and
thought-provoking fare they offer young readers. Her first book was
published in 1949. Her works include five historical novels for young
adults, many retellings of myths and epics--including the Odyssey and
the Iliad, the story of King Arthur, and legends of the Norse gods--and
collections of fairy tales. Several of her books have been shortlisted
for the Carnegie Medal, the oldest children's book award in the UK. Paul
Dry Books also publishes Picard's book One Is One.
