Perceval: King Arthur's Knight of the Holy Grail

by John Perkins, Gennady Spirin (Illustrator)

Retells the Arthurian legend of Perceval, a foolish and impatient boy who realizes his dream of becoming a great knight, but meets with misfortune when he forgets to pray and serve God.

Genres: Medieval, Childrens, Picture Books

36 pages, Hardcover

Published March 1, 2007

Reviews

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Some people believe that Chretien died before he could return to the chapters about Perceval and fully complete his story. It has also been said that, for some more mysterious reason, this legend -- which is the tale of us all -- has not yet been finished in the inner landscape of our hearts and minds."

A Jungian retells the Percival legend without marring it. Gennady Spirin did a multi-scene painting about the knight's life in tempera on gesso and describes the magic-like technique. The book is illustrated throughout with details from that painting. We should all be wondering (and asking questions!) about the Fisher King.

Because the story remains unfinished.

[Regina Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was ordering this book from the library I did not realize that it was for a younger generation. Non the less I am glad to read it, one of few decent books about morals that I want to read to my children. I do not want to seem too judgmental, but the modern children books are degrading. Yes, they use old ideas and try to portray everything in a silly manner, but there is a fine line of reading silly Alice in Wonderland and book that is utterly stupid. I am glad to have had.the opportunity to read fine stories that I know will enrich not only morally, but culturally, historically, geographically and even mythology and legend wise. Sounds too high up, but when a college student doesn't know where Spain is, it is sad, or when student thinks Greek myths are.made up by the professor as he goes along.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though in picture book format, this lovely story is very wordy, too long and complex for young children. Spirin used a medieval technique called gesso to create his gorgeous paintings. Most pages have a lovely floral and leaf border surrounding the text. The retelling is based on Chretien de Troyes' work The Story of the Grail.

[booklady]

See my friend Monique's interesting review of this book.

[SarahC · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a delicately illustrated adaptation of Perceval's tale from Chretien, de Troyes, originally written in the twelth century. There are interesting author and illustrator notes that add to the value of this edition. It is a well-written retelling that would be a good introduction of Arthurian literature for anyone, but is certainly readable for middle elementary school readers on up.

[R. G. Nairam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Try as a might, I just can't seem to like King Arthur stuff. I'm not sure why. I'm sure this retelling is pretty nice, and the illustrations are fascinating. My favourite part was in the back where the author explained the original source of the story and the author, and the illustrator explained his painting process.

[Amy Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful read-aloud. The tale of Perceval and his quest is rich with many layers of meaning. I loved it. The gospel theme of repentance and redemption shines, and Perceval's flawed choices resulting from pride remind us of our own.

I read another version of Perceval's tale, also based on Chretien de Troyes' legend, but I prefer this one.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was fun until the end but it was too long with too few pictures to read to younger children.

[Simona · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish it didn't have the religious undertones near the end, and just stick to the story... Otherwise beautiful pictures.

[Dumindu · Rating 1 out of 5]

It is a Good Ideal one..!