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Books Set in The Middle Ages

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Medieval Britain is a fascinating period to study, yet many school libraries are lacking in stories set during this time. Barbara Henderson – author of The Siege of Caerlaverock – has picked out her top five recommended children’s books set in the Middle Ages.

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Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Chapter book

Suitable for upper primary, this charming story retains plenty of suspense until the very end. It has a compelling narrator, a mysterious stranger and an impossible mission. It also has one of the best twists of any children’s books I know of. The Middle Ages are evoked in so many ways: language, settings and characters – but never do these things become a barrier to a modern reader connecting with the story. Just fabulous!

Jacqueline Morley
 & David Antram
Non-fiction

This text is an accessible, heavily illustrated and humorous take on life in the Middle Ages and I love the whole Danger Zone series. It will appeal to fans of Horrible Histories and to young readers who will learn without realising that they are learning. An excellent introduction to the topic, enabling children to imagine themselves in a medieval castle.

Vivian French
 & David Melling
Picturebook

All the Knight in Training books are excellent, entertaining and exciting young readers in equal measure. The dream team of Vivian French and illustrator David Melling weave their ample magic here: Sam J. Butterbiggins’ only ambition is to be a Very Noble Knight, but he has been packed off to the castle next door. Now he has to put up with his annoying cousin Prune, and the weird creatures his aunt looks after in her Luxury Accommodation for Dragons, Griffins and other Regal Beasts!

Barbara Henderson
Chapter book

Barbara’s own book, The Siege of Caerlaverock, is set in Scotland in 1300. Ada’s castle home is under attack. Rocks and flaming arrows rain from the sky as Ada has a dangerous choice to make. Who will survive the siege of Caerlaverock? Find out more about the book on our blog.

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Stone Girl Bone Girl

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