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Usborne Classics Retold
Usbourne tales of King Arthur and his Knights
-- These wonderful tales, full of magic, mystery and suspense have been retold for today's reader, with atmospheric illustrations, an informative introduction and useful notes.-- Delve into the exciting adventures of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table in this delightful chapter book
160 pages
First published March 1, 1995
15 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Felicity Brooks
443 books29 followersFelicity Brooks is an Editorial Director and writer at Usborne Publishing. She studied English and Drama at Exeter University and worked as an actor, teacher and lexicographer (someone who compiles dictionaries) before starting work in children’s publishing in the late 1980s.
She has written and edited hundreds of children’s books, including stories and novelty books for pre-schoolers and books about history, geography, languages, science, maths, nature and the arts.
Her books have won the TES Senior Information Book Award, the Aventis Science Books Prize, the SLA Information Book Award, the Sheffield Baby Books Award and Practical Pre-school Gold and Silver Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 2, 2013
Is it fiction or history? This book does not resolve that question. Rather, Brooks presents the vibrant story of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, and how Guinevere (or Mordred & Morgan le Fey) brought down Camelot and destroyed the lovely kingdom of Logros that King Arthur built.
We thoroughly enjoyed this adaptation. Brooks has paced the stories selected and the order of presentation well to place the climax of the Last Battle, followed by the resolution of the story with Arthur's death in the last chapter. One of the first books our lower grammar read all by himself, it is a great book for boys.
Parents will want to be aware that Merlin and his wizardry, the temptation of a Knight, the complex relationship between Guinevere and Lancelot (this version indicates they were in love, never acted on their passion, but that their conduct lent truth to false accusations against them), and many battles are covered. Brooks' style of matter of fact accounts neither glorifies nor condemns these aspects, and all is discussed in the context of honor and bravery that pervaded the lives of medieval knights.
Reading this alongside http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/79...
highlighted the cultural context of medieval Europe verses medieval arabia. A worthwhile exercise.
In the end, this was a highly enjoyable read that both fulfills and feeds a young student's desire to learn about the time period. However, it is not one I would turn over to a child without guidance. While the reading level/ writing are excellent for lower and upper grammar students, the material requires opportunity for the child to interact with an adult. Certainly the items above would be part of the discussion, but also any other elements that strike the reader as he progresses through the chapters.
We thoroughly enjoyed this adaptation. Brooks has paced the stories selected and the order of presentation well to place the climax of the Last Battle, followed by the resolution of the story with Arthur's death in the last chapter. One of the first books our lower grammar read all by himself, it is a great book for boys.
Parents will want to be aware that Merlin and his wizardry, the temptation of a Knight, the complex relationship between Guinevere and Lancelot (this version indicates they were in love, never acted on their passion, but that their conduct lent truth to false accusations against them), and many battles are covered. Brooks' style of matter of fact accounts neither glorifies nor condemns these aspects, and all is discussed in the context of honor and bravery that pervaded the lives of medieval knights.
Reading this alongside http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/79...
highlighted the cultural context of medieval Europe verses medieval arabia. A worthwhile exercise.
In the end, this was a highly enjoyable read that both fulfills and feeds a young student's desire to learn about the time period. However, it is not one I would turn over to a child without guidance. While the reading level/ writing are excellent for lower and upper grammar students, the material requires opportunity for the child to interact with an adult. Certainly the items above would be part of the discussion, but also any other elements that strike the reader as he progresses through the chapters.
May 24, 2022
It appears there are a couple of different versions of this book here on Goodreads, neither with the cover I have, so I'm just going to run with this being the right one. (I have the Usborne Classics edition, published in 2002)
This book is essentially a retelling of the classic King Arthur stories for kids. This is a short collection of stories that can be read by themselves, or in order as they do have continuity.
Although this is a children's book, it doesn't completely shy away from the dirty details, and there is plenty of violence and even adult themes present.
This was a book I read endlessly as a kid and just decided to reread it as an adult. While it may not have captivated me like it did as a wee lad, I still enjoyed this. I am (ashamed) to admit this is the only literature that I've read of the tales of King Arthur and the various books and retellings that have been published throughout the years. Maybe one day I'll read the original stories, but this is a cool little book that could introduce young readers to these classic fables, as it did for me.
This book is essentially a retelling of the classic King Arthur stories for kids. This is a short collection of stories that can be read by themselves, or in order as they do have continuity.
Although this is a children's book, it doesn't completely shy away from the dirty details, and there is plenty of violence and even adult themes present.
This was a book I read endlessly as a kid and just decided to reread it as an adult. While it may not have captivated me like it did as a wee lad, I still enjoyed this. I am (ashamed) to admit this is the only literature that I've read of the tales of King Arthur and the various books and retellings that have been published throughout the years. Maybe one day I'll read the original stories, but this is a cool little book that could introduce young readers to these classic fables, as it did for me.
October 9, 2021
I don’t know how many times I read this book when I was a kid.
January 9, 2016
Felicity Brooks’ chapter book narrates the exciting adventures of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, from the sword in the stone to the last battle. It depicts his changing status and life in an engaging and emotional way as readers track his ascent to the throne and the rewards and challenges he encounters. Chapters such as ‘The lady in the lake’ and ‘Excalibur’ bring to life the unique characters of Camelot including the wise and charismatic wizard Merlin, the chivalrous Sir Lancelot, the wicked Morgan le Fay and the desirable Queen Guinevere whose beauty captures King Arthur’s heart but leads to disappointment when she engaged in flirting with Sir Lancelot.
The tales are well illustrated and fast-moving which minimises any unnecessary details and centralises the action. It is full of magic mystery and suspense, exploring themes of status, love, betrayal, treason, family, loyalty and power. It is written in a modern way with an approachable style, aimed to introduce upper key stage 2 students, to popular classic stories that have great depth and are entertaining. The tales can be supported visually by allowing students to watch the King Arthur film and see the characters in action. The language is concise and has some challenging vocabulary so it is accessible to different abilities in the class. The fantasy genre which has action, emotion and intriguing characters with a plethora of personalities will prove to be an interesting read for all students.
The tales are well illustrated and fast-moving which minimises any unnecessary details and centralises the action. It is full of magic mystery and suspense, exploring themes of status, love, betrayal, treason, family, loyalty and power. It is written in a modern way with an approachable style, aimed to introduce upper key stage 2 students, to popular classic stories that have great depth and are entertaining. The tales can be supported visually by allowing students to watch the King Arthur film and see the characters in action. The language is concise and has some challenging vocabulary so it is accessible to different abilities in the class. The fantasy genre which has action, emotion and intriguing characters with a plethora of personalities will prove to be an interesting read for all students.
June 19, 2017
My son, aged five, wanted to read some classics and I found this a serviceable text. While by no means a book for a child that young, it is very well done in adapting the classic Arthurian legends into modern stories for youth. Brilliantly illustrated and well done for the younger crowd. Covers young Arthur and his pulling of the sword from the stone through obtaining Excalibur and even Sir Gawain's deal with the Green Knight through to Arthur and the Knights of the Round Tables end.
If you have an independent reader or want to read Arthurian legends to a child as I did, this would be a fine place to begin.
If you have an independent reader or want to read Arthurian legends to a child as I did, this would be a fine place to begin.
August 12, 2016
The Tales of King Arthur was about knights clashing their swords and having adventures starting with the Sword of the Stone to The Last Battle.
King Arthur is a mythological character who jousted, being the only one who brought the sword out of the stone. Lots of people know this story and have many different versions of books.
What I liked about this book, that people have great imaginations. I think it is good that some people think he was really alive, but sad if people did make it up.
King Arthur is a mythological character who jousted, being the only one who brought the sword out of the stone. Lots of people know this story and have many different versions of books.
What I liked about this book, that people have great imaginations. I think it is good that some people think he was really alive, but sad if people did make it up.
March 12, 2015
At 139 pages this simple retelling of King Arthur's tales is a quick read. I read this aloud to my 7- and 11-year old to complement our middle ages history lesson. They both really enjoyed it.
3.5/4 stars
3.5/4 stars
August 24, 2016
Perfectly fun and informative recounting of the various legends and stories of the mythical King Arthur. Considering this is meant for kids , I found I had a good time, also namesake characters are always fun to read about!
July 3, 2017
A very good adaptation of the King Arthur stories for younger readers. It glosses over some of the more controversial topics for readers (no Holy Grail, adultery, incest, etc) and balances accuracy and interest from young readers very well.
April 5, 2009
My favorite character in this book was Sir Bedaviere. He was the only one to survive the last battle. He threw Exlcalibur into the lake and a monster hand took it and saved it. It was fun to read.
January 17, 2011
A lot of action, I liked it. However, it was long and it made me very sleepy.
November 25, 2011
Very basic and simple. I like it, but still very basic.
July 27, 2012
Beautifully written and illustrated. This book kept my family enchanted for hours. It's an excellent introduction to the Arthurian legends for all ages.
August 27, 2014
i really liked this book. too much violence for younger readers more for ages 10 and up. but it does depend on the kid.
I will post a more in depth review later.
Rose
I will post a more in depth review later.
Rose
April 20, 2015
Interesting to read some of the stories behind King Arthur, but it was very basic, disjointed and lacking emotion or description.
April 30, 2015
My 7 year old enjoyed it, though parts of it were perhaps too mature for him. I did some impromptu editing as I read. Still, a good read - not too simplified. Plenty of rich language.
March 15, 2016
We gave this book to my cousin for his birthday. I think he'll enjoy it. Good stories.
February 27, 2017
Very good book. Makes me want to read more stories about King Arthur and Sir Lancelot.
January 11, 2020
While reading "The Guinevere Deception" by Kiersten White, I wanted a reminder of the Knights of the round table and their stories as I couldn't remember who was who. I got this book when I was 5, but had never read it cover to cover so I particularly liked some of the less well covered stories but found the ending a little frustrating and dumb (ugh). However I enjoyed them a lot overall and still love the Arthurian legends! This was a great refresher and this specific edition comes with some amazing colour illustrations by Rodney Matthews which are stunning!
January 30, 2023
Dan, Annie and I enjoyed this and often my middle schoolers would stop doing their own work to mosey over and listen! It is violent and not rated G but was fine for my kid’s ages. A good big kid (and Mom) introduction to the not-Disney-fied Tales of King Arthur!
January 12, 2022
I guess I don't like heroic tales much. Or maybe it was the short format. I felt no emotional connection to the characters
November 18, 2022
It is very average book i dint really like it I felt it was a little to fast paced like from one place you random go to another . It is very weird but not really my style .
December 27, 2022
I don't understand why one book could have soany covers. But I guess it's cause of versions. Anyway, I dint like it much.
June 11, 2023
Much like the 'Tales of the Trojan War', this is a beautifully illustrated re-telling of the Arthurian mythos for children. I give this my highest recommendation!
February 3, 2024
A beautifully illustrated book.
January 19, 2025
Vibrant pictures amazing storytelling and honestly a great book to learn about King Arthur
Read
June 19, 2020good retelling, most of the common myths with some less regular ones about Morgana and the Green Knight
May 29, 2011
Not a bad story.
The story was much different than I anticipated considering I watched the Sword of the Stone a dozen times before reading this. I am a mythology lover and I do like the magical/mythological events in this story, but I just read so many mythology stories prior to this that I don't consider this my most favorite. Plus, I've read so many endings similar to this story where it was all like "To this day King Arthur is still alive in Avalon and is believed to return and rescue his country when Britain is in great peril." But just an FYI, this only felt repetitious on my part since I read a lot of mythology books. Individually, I'd rate this book 3 stars. But compared to the other mythology books I've read (i.e. Mahabharata, Oedipus Rex, etc), it'd have to give it only 2 stars; the morals and surprise twists in this mythology story didn't impress me as much as the other texts I have read.
The story was much different than I anticipated considering I watched the Sword of the Stone a dozen times before reading this. I am a mythology lover and I do like the magical/mythological events in this story, but I just read so many mythology stories prior to this that I don't consider this my most favorite. Plus, I've read so many endings similar to this story where it was all like "To this day King Arthur is still alive in Avalon and is believed to return and rescue his country when Britain is in great peril." But just an FYI, this only felt repetitious on my part since I read a lot of mythology books. Individually, I'd rate this book 3 stars. But compared to the other mythology books I've read (i.e. Mahabharata, Oedipus Rex, etc), it'd have to give it only 2 stars; the morals and surprise twists in this mythology story didn't impress me as much as the other texts I have read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2021
For some reason, my reading dates of this book got messed up and I lost my original review of the book. I remember I mentioned not having read anything about the "original" Arthurian legends before and being excited about it, I was surprised to find that Sir Gawain was Arthur's nephew, and I shared my slight disappointment of there not being more about the women in the legends, specifically Morgana le Fay (why did she become evil for example?). I've now read the book again and after that and a class on medieval literature (where we discussed the Arthurian legends in detail, which was why I reread the book in the first place), I can't wait to pick up another book about King Arthur and his knights and read it and learn even more about it.
February 3, 2017
Borrowed this book from my cousin who is in 7th grade, when I had nothing else to read :P
I had watched and enjoyed the movie King Arthur(2004) and I was quite eager to take up this one.
This is a children's book. A lot of legends about the King and his Knights are just put together in 150 pages. At first, I was excited about all the magical elements associated. But the story telling is poor and the magics and wizardry are not so exciting. I don't think this would be very captivating for children. 3 stars.
The movie is greatly recommended for people who are interested though.
I had watched and enjoyed the movie King Arthur(2004) and I was quite eager to take up this one.
This is a children's book. A lot of legends about the King and his Knights are just put together in 150 pages. At first, I was excited about all the magical elements associated. But the story telling is poor and the magics and wizardry are not so exciting. I don't think this would be very captivating for children. 3 stars.
The movie is greatly recommended for people who are interested though.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews