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The Badger Knight
National Book Award winner Kathryn Erskine presents unique novel about a sickly boy's epic journey through England and Scotland at the height of Medieval times. Adrian is small for his age, even for a twelve year old. It doesn't help that he's an albino, which makes those he meets wonder if he's an angel or a devil. His father is a bowyer, and all Adrian wants to do is become apprenticed and go off to war as a long bowman. But that's not what his father wants for him. Since Adrian can write, his father wants him to be a scribe. That's just about the last thing Adrian wants. When the Scots invade England and Adrian's best friend Hugh runs off to find his father and fight in battles, Adrian soon follows, intent on finding Hugh and joining him in glorious warfare against the pagans invading England from the north. When Adrian finds Hugh, who is caring for a wounded Scotsman, he's horrified that Hugh would aid an enemy. But soon, as Adrian gets to know the Donald, he begins to question what he's been taught about the enemy and the nature of war. In this epic journey an afflicted boy finds and inner strength he never knew belonged to him.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published August 26, 2014
16 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Erskine
15 books312 followersKathryn Erskine spent many years as a lawyer before realizing that she'd rather write things that people might actually enjoy reading.
She grew up mostly overseas and attended eight different schools, her favorite being the Hogwarts-type castle in Scotland.
The faculty, of course, did not consist of wizards, although... how did the headmistress know that it was the wee redhead who led the campaign to free the mice from the biology lab?
Erskine draws on her childhood and her second childhood through her children for her stories. She still loves to travel but nowadays most trips tend to be local, such as basketball and tennis courts, occasional emergency room visits, and the natural food store for very healthy organic chocolate with life saving flavonoids.
She grew up mostly overseas and attended eight different schools, her favorite being the Hogwarts-type castle in Scotland.
The faculty, of course, did not consist of wizards, although... how did the headmistress know that it was the wee redhead who led the campaign to free the mice from the biology lab?
Erskine draws on her childhood and her second childhood through her children for her stories. She still loves to travel but nowadays most trips tend to be local, such as basketball and tennis courts, occasional emergency room visits, and the natural food store for very healthy organic chocolate with life saving flavonoids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
August 23, 2014
I received an ARC of THE BADGER KNIGHT in exchange for an honest review. Turns out to have been an excellent bargain.
As always, Kathy Erskine has created a layered story that rewards both the fast pleasure reader and a lengthier, in-depth exploration. THE BADGER KNIGHT stars Adrian, the young son of a bowmaker in a medieval England on the brink of war with Scotland and France. Adrian dreams of glory in battle, but he's hobbled by an accident of birth: he's an albino, with skin and hair that make his neighbors mock him -- and strangers fear him.
To top it off, he's plagued by asthma attacks that leave him gasping. The villagers think he's too weak and simple to ever amount to much. Even his own father refuses to train him in the one thing that he really cares about: archery. When Adrian's best friend sneaks away to join the battle, Adrian sees a chance to prove to everyone that he's good for something more than gathering goosefeathers.
But Adrian will find more than he bargained for on the road. And he'll learn that his sharp wits are good for more than shirking school, church and chores.
THE BADGER KNIGHT provides a classic road story of adventure, close calls and new friends that would be at home in any century. Erskine's dialogue somehow rings true as period and modern at once, and her characters grow and shift and surprise you at every turn. She doesn't flinch at showing the horrors of war, both physical and mental, through their impacts on 12-year-old Adrian and his friends. And watching Adrian discover his true value and change his dreams is a true pleasure.
I'd recommend THE BADGER KNIGHT for readers 8 and up, particularly those who prefer adventure or fantasy and balk at history lessons. Though the book has a historical setting, it teems with magic and the mystery of another world. It's kind of like sneaking some carrots into the meatloaf - the kids will never know they're learning some history along with their tasty literary romp.
As always, Kathy Erskine has created a layered story that rewards both the fast pleasure reader and a lengthier, in-depth exploration. THE BADGER KNIGHT stars Adrian, the young son of a bowmaker in a medieval England on the brink of war with Scotland and France. Adrian dreams of glory in battle, but he's hobbled by an accident of birth: he's an albino, with skin and hair that make his neighbors mock him -- and strangers fear him.
To top it off, he's plagued by asthma attacks that leave him gasping. The villagers think he's too weak and simple to ever amount to much. Even his own father refuses to train him in the one thing that he really cares about: archery. When Adrian's best friend sneaks away to join the battle, Adrian sees a chance to prove to everyone that he's good for something more than gathering goosefeathers.
But Adrian will find more than he bargained for on the road. And he'll learn that his sharp wits are good for more than shirking school, church and chores.
THE BADGER KNIGHT provides a classic road story of adventure, close calls and new friends that would be at home in any century. Erskine's dialogue somehow rings true as period and modern at once, and her characters grow and shift and surprise you at every turn. She doesn't flinch at showing the horrors of war, both physical and mental, through their impacts on 12-year-old Adrian and his friends. And watching Adrian discover his true value and change his dreams is a true pleasure.
I'd recommend THE BADGER KNIGHT for readers 8 and up, particularly those who prefer adventure or fantasy and balk at history lessons. Though the book has a historical setting, it teems with magic and the mystery of another world. It's kind of like sneaking some carrots into the meatloaf - the kids will never know they're learning some history along with their tasty literary romp.
June 1, 2022
Set in 14th Century England, The Badger Knight is a book told by the perspective of Adrian, a boy with albinism who wants nothing more than to be seen as a man.
I bought The Badger Knight at a book fair in elementary school, and that, along with the Author’s Note and language used is why it is my understanding that this book is meant to target late elementary schoolers, maybe early middle schoolers?
That being said, I explicitly remember reading it then and… Not understanding. This is where I believe the Badger Knight’s potential was squandered.
Diving into the 14th century is like going to a whole new world. Everything is new (or old I suppose), and even with a glossary of language at the back, there are many concepts that are brand new or foreign to a kid, especially one who has never been to church. There are times when I wish more time within the text had been taken to simply explain things, rather than simply moving from one scene to the next.
Or, alternatively, I wish Erskine had taken the research and clearly amazing knowledge on this time period and targeted an older audience. Given herself the chance to let her knowledge shine in a story intensely character driven writer for an audience that won’t need to have their hands held through it as much.
As is, the Badger Knight feels inaccessible to the audience as young as she intended but too simple story wise to be incredibly appealing to an older audience, especially given the fact it is written in first person from a 12-13 year olds perspective. Though the characters and story are compelling, it just felt like lost potential.
I bought The Badger Knight at a book fair in elementary school, and that, along with the Author’s Note and language used is why it is my understanding that this book is meant to target late elementary schoolers, maybe early middle schoolers?
That being said, I explicitly remember reading it then and… Not understanding. This is where I believe the Badger Knight’s potential was squandered.
Diving into the 14th century is like going to a whole new world. Everything is new (or old I suppose), and even with a glossary of language at the back, there are many concepts that are brand new or foreign to a kid, especially one who has never been to church. There are times when I wish more time within the text had been taken to simply explain things, rather than simply moving from one scene to the next.
Or, alternatively, I wish Erskine had taken the research and clearly amazing knowledge on this time period and targeted an older audience. Given herself the chance to let her knowledge shine in a story intensely character driven writer for an audience that won’t need to have their hands held through it as much.
As is, the Badger Knight feels inaccessible to the audience as young as she intended but too simple story wise to be incredibly appealing to an older audience, especially given the fact it is written in first person from a 12-13 year olds perspective. Though the characters and story are compelling, it just felt like lost potential.
November 2, 2014
Northern England, 1346. Twelve-year-old Adrian wants to follow the men of his village into battle against the Scots, who, it is feared, mean to pour over the border and terrorize the English. Though secretly a fine archer, Adrian is small for his age. He is also, the narrative suggests, albino. This marks him as a devil in the minds of some, and a target for the village bullies.
To prove he is neither “addlepated,” nor useless, Adrian slips off to beat back the enemy. On the way, Adrian learns to see the world in shaded terms of grey rather than in hard black and white. Few people are as bad as they seem—not even the pagan Scots. Adrian must face his own prejudices, too. A valuable message of tolerance is woven through the story once Adrian finally begins his quest. For me, though, it was a story that did not truly begin until about halfway through the book. And while we are often told Adrian is unusual looking (he describes himself as “puny, sickly, and pale as milk”), I felt a niggling disconnect and did not quite believe it. Adrian may have asthma and poor eyesight, but he seems quick on the mark often enough. Review from the November Issue of the Historical Novel Society Review.
To prove he is neither “addlepated,” nor useless, Adrian slips off to beat back the enemy. On the way, Adrian learns to see the world in shaded terms of grey rather than in hard black and white. Few people are as bad as they seem—not even the pagan Scots. Adrian must face his own prejudices, too. A valuable message of tolerance is woven through the story once Adrian finally begins his quest. For me, though, it was a story that did not truly begin until about halfway through the book. And while we are often told Adrian is unusual looking (he describes himself as “puny, sickly, and pale as milk”), I felt a niggling disconnect and did not quite believe it. Adrian may have asthma and poor eyesight, but he seems quick on the mark often enough. Review from the November Issue of the Historical Novel Society Review.
July 11, 2024
"The Badger Knight" - written by Kathryn Erskine and published in 2014 by Scholastic Press. If it's the Middle Ages, I'm in. Adrian, a 12-year old undersized boy who also has albino coloring, is an expert with a bow and arrow thanks to his father's occupation of bowyer. The dreaded Scots are invading England and the Badger, as Adrian styles himself, gets himself right in the middle of it all. The bite-sized chapters keep the action moving, with writing catering to middle grade readers looking for action and a bit of humor. This would be a great choice for a librarian, teacher or parent to recommend.
March 1, 2017
It was a pretty good book. I liked how it was set in medieval times more specifically the mid 1300s. The book has so much to it that is why it would make you want to read it. Overall I thought it was a good book with a good story.
September 16, 2014
I couldn't wait to read this because of Kathryn Erskine's wonderful reputation. It was good, good for Upper Elementary boys and girls who love medieval adventure. Ms. Erskine does convincingly portray growth and change in Adrian (The Badger Knight) and it is growth towards understanding others and recognizing the enemy as someone we can care for and protect. However, this book did not transcend its age range -- it is not compelling enough for most 7th - 8th graders, High School or adults. However, it does join Will Sparrow's Road by Karen Cushman as a worthy upper elementary choice.
April 25, 2018
"The Badger Knight" by Kathryn Erskine
I enjoyed every minute reading this wonderful book ... until I became so worried about the protagonist that I was afraid to read more! But I came back to the book time after time. I couldn't stay away.
Adrian, a.k.a. The Badger, lives in a village where he is scorned simply because of his appearance and his ailments. When Adrian's best friend, Hugh, heads off to locate his father in the war, Adrian knows he must follow and contribute to the English side as a secretly skilled archer. On his own, Adrian faces danger, cold, and hunger, but he never gives up. Adrian's goal to join the battle takes a surprising turn when he encounters an injured knight. His quest to return Donald to the safety of his homeland becomes all that is important to Adrian. To do this, they will have to travel through enemy territory.
As you read this book, you step into a medieval world where each day is a struggle. The story came to life for me through the vivid descriptions of the setting and characters.
The main character, the Badger, began as a shy, uncertain boy and became a hero who was willing to risk his life to bring an injured knight home to his family. Adrian finds that encountering a real battlefield is quite different from sitting at a cozy fire and listening to stories about the glory of war.
There were no boring stretches where the reader simply tags along with Adrian on a solitary journey, perhaps because Adrian is rarely alone! The author was wise enough to put her main character in contact with other people, which kept the story interesting.
I was constantly wondering what would happen next -- usually with bated breath, as I liked the Badger very much and didn't want anything bad to happen to him. But trouble and danger kept finding him.
I would certainly recommend "The Badger Knight."
I enjoyed every minute reading this wonderful book ... until I became so worried about the protagonist that I was afraid to read more! But I came back to the book time after time. I couldn't stay away.
Adrian, a.k.a. The Badger, lives in a village where he is scorned simply because of his appearance and his ailments. When Adrian's best friend, Hugh, heads off to locate his father in the war, Adrian knows he must follow and contribute to the English side as a secretly skilled archer. On his own, Adrian faces danger, cold, and hunger, but he never gives up. Adrian's goal to join the battle takes a surprising turn when he encounters an injured knight. His quest to return Donald to the safety of his homeland becomes all that is important to Adrian. To do this, they will have to travel through enemy territory.
As you read this book, you step into a medieval world where each day is a struggle. The story came to life for me through the vivid descriptions of the setting and characters.
The main character, the Badger, began as a shy, uncertain boy and became a hero who was willing to risk his life to bring an injured knight home to his family. Adrian finds that encountering a real battlefield is quite different from sitting at a cozy fire and listening to stories about the glory of war.
There were no boring stretches where the reader simply tags along with Adrian on a solitary journey, perhaps because Adrian is rarely alone! The author was wise enough to put her main character in contact with other people, which kept the story interesting.
I was constantly wondering what would happen next -- usually with bated breath, as I liked the Badger very much and didn't want anything bad to happen to him. But trouble and danger kept finding him.
I would certainly recommend "The Badger Knight."
October 2, 2019
I enjoy a good medieval tale, so I picked this one up off of my new book display and took it home. This book could definitely have appeal to the modern child. Adrian, the main character, longs to become a knight and fight for England against invading Scots. But he is small for his age and, even worse, an albino, so people fear him as some sort of devil. His father is the bowyer for their small village and he has been practicing archery his entire life. He is an expert marksman, and knows he can be a great warrior, although he also can read and write, a rarity for the time, and his mother's dying wish was for him to become a scribe.
Adrian ends up following his friend Hugh to the border where the fighting is. Along the way, he learns some valuable lessons about the horrors of war. He learns not to judge people based on looks, gender, or where they're from. Finally, he learns that the pen can indeed be mightier than the sword, and that his ability to write can make him, if he so chooses, a bearer of truth. And all of this happens in a way that is believable to his character and the time period.
Adrian ends up following his friend Hugh to the border where the fighting is. Along the way, he learns some valuable lessons about the horrors of war. He learns not to judge people based on looks, gender, or where they're from. Finally, he learns that the pen can indeed be mightier than the sword, and that his ability to write can make him, if he so chooses, a bearer of truth. And all of this happens in a way that is believable to his character and the time period.
April 4, 2024
The Badger Knight deals with some complex issues, such as war, death, killing, dehumanization of the enemy, recognizing evil even amongst your own, infantilization of people with disabilities, and general medieval backward thinking about people who look slightly different in a well-done and hopeful way that highlights the value of loyalty, goodness, kindness, bravery, smarts, cleverness, the importance of literacy, feminism, and a shared humanity.
I also really liked Adrian, though if he said "Saint Jerome's Bones" one more time, I thought I was going to reach into the book and shake him silly! Lol! (𖦹〰𖦹)
My one bone to pick with this book is the ending. I did not love .
Overall 4/4.5 stars.
I also really liked Adrian, though if he said "Saint Jerome's Bones" one more time, I thought I was going to reach into the book and shake him silly! Lol! (𖦹〰𖦹)
My one bone to pick with this book is the ending. I did not love .
Overall 4/4.5 stars.
October 1, 2021
Katheryn Erskine's book, "The Badger Knight" was definetely and adventure story. Set in the Middle Ages amidst the fighting between England and Scotland. The quest of young Adrian of Ashcroft was filled with descriptions of Midieval life, the good and the bad, mostly the bad. This story should serve as a lesson (albeit an intertaining one) for younger readers to know more about the lives of people who lived in 1346. Adrian wanted to make use of his archery skills by getting into the battle for England. On his journey he learned a great deal about himself, as well as others in his life, and that we're all different people, but we are just that, all people sharing many, many aspects of our lives.
The story is filled with trials and tribulations that Adrian must conquer. I think young readers will enjoy being pulled into Adrian's life and will come out better for it.
The story is filled with trials and tribulations that Adrian must conquer. I think young readers will enjoy being pulled into Adrian's life and will come out better for it.
January 3, 2020
I received a free review copy of this book.
I enjoyed this coming-of-age tale, as friends who grew up together start to develop their sense of self, and find a place in the world. The horrors of battle are addressed, but not in particularly graphic or disturbing ways. I was intrigued to learn more about attitudes towards albinism in the 1300s!
Adrian is a strong, brave character, but his strengths don't necessarily lie where he thinks they do. He and his cousin Bess deal with prejudice at home. It takes leaving the village for the children to see who they really are, or could be.
I especially liked the author's note at the back, describing the trip she took to write about the places in the book, and how you can still visit them!
I enjoyed this coming-of-age tale, as friends who grew up together start to develop their sense of self, and find a place in the world. The horrors of battle are addressed, but not in particularly graphic or disturbing ways. I was intrigued to learn more about attitudes towards albinism in the 1300s!
Adrian is a strong, brave character, but his strengths don't necessarily lie where he thinks they do. He and his cousin Bess deal with prejudice at home. It takes leaving the village for the children to see who they really are, or could be.
I especially liked the author's note at the back, describing the trip she took to write about the places in the book, and how you can still visit them!
April 22, 2020
I love a good young historic fiction read. I enjoyed finding out just how courageous Adrian was, how he ventures out into the world to find out just who he is in this world. The adventures in this story is fun, dangerous, and with many laughable moments. Adrian will be test along with it his family and friends. I would love to see this story made into a book series. What happens when he succeeds in his mission, what happens to his family and best friend. What happens to the friends he makes along the way.
November 2, 2020
Interesting children's historical novel with lots of action. In England in 1346 Adrian has three problems: he is small for his twelve years, he is an albino, so people are suspicious of him, and his father wants him to be a scribe, while he wants to be an archer--but when he runs away to join his friend in the fight against the invading Scots, he learns that war can be a lot more complicated then he imagined.
June 24, 2022
I preread this book to see if I wanted to put it on my daughter's third grade reading list.
The Badger Knight isn't bad, but it didn't blow me away, and the writing wasn't amazing. I like the themes of acceptance and anti-bullying and I think it's a good book to read, but I think I can find a higher quality book with the same themes for her list.
The Badger Knight isn't bad, but it didn't blow me away, and the writing wasn't amazing. I like the themes of acceptance and anti-bullying and I think it's a good book to read, but I think I can find a higher quality book with the same themes for her list.
October 6, 2017
Well-written, well-researched MG novel set in the post-Braveheart Middle Ages. Ms. Erskine delves deeper into the past than she has before to deliver an interesting story with well-defined characters that should make young people reconsider what it means to be different.
March 11, 2019
Very good book and great to know what it was like back in the 1300's Adrian was an albino and everyone thought is was the devil and was small and week. He proved himself as a smart person and great archer. Very smart.
October 21, 2020
This was a fun read and would have pushed close to 5 stars except for the mind-numbing reoccurrence of the word “addlepated” something like 9,476 times throughout its pages. Should I ever hear that word again, it will always remind me of this book, though.
July 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced, full of adventure, and had a good message. I don’t know why some reviews say that this book is geared more towards boys than girls. It’s definitely an adventure that would intrigue anyone regardless of gender.
November 13, 2024
My middle grader asked if there is a 2nd book of this one. We learned new vocabulary and looked up additional information about Bible passage of the leper and author's note is good also to know that the places Adrian traveled do exist.
April 25, 2025
More like 3.5, but not rounding up. I picked this up at Dollar Tree. Not my norm. Young adult with a *strong* emphasis on 'young.' It was okay. Can't say I enjoyed it, but then I didn't dislike it either. Didn't really 'pick up' until somewhere between 2/3 and 3/4 of the way through.
May 18, 2017
I enjoyed the book, especially since it was about a young boy growing up. Adrian is one of the most dynamic characters I have ever seen.
October 18, 2022
Excellent.
Well written.
Historical accurarcy.
I purchased this for my grandson and enjoyed reading this book. The author did an outstanding job.
Well written.
Historical accurarcy.
I purchased this for my grandson and enjoyed reading this book. The author did an outstanding job.
June 30, 2024
really fun story! Adrian's journey is well written, interesting, and fun to read.
January 10, 2025
I enjoyed the overall premise but I think it would have been better as an adult historical fiction novel rather than a YA book.
February 28, 2025
I loved the underestimated but determined feeling this book gave off. The main character was weak and was bullied but proved he was still worth something and I really enjoyed that.
March 15, 2017
Adrian wants nothing more than to be a bowyer, like his father. He dreams of the glory of going off to battle against the Scots and win victory for England, so he runs away to join the fighting alongside his good friend Hugh. Little does he know that his journey is going to be littered with other adventures that point his life down a different path.
February 3, 2015
Review originally posted on Children's Atheneum
Adrian is nearly thirteen, but you wouldn't know it if you looked at him. Asthmatic, small for his age, and with albinism, most people in his village see him as useless or at the very least, sent from the devil. Even his father, a bowyer, doesn't think Adrian is strong enough to be a bowyer's apprentice. When the Scots invade England though, Adrian sees his opportunity to prove his worth. He follows his best friend Hugh into battle, bow on his back, but war as not as glorious as he thought it would be and finding his friend even more difficult.
Set in 1327, Kathryn Erskine does a fantastic job of rooting her readers in this medieval world that almost feels like a fantasy realm. Medieval language is peppered throughout the book, not too heavily as to be unreadable for intermediate readers, but enough to feel rooted solidly in this world. Like Karen Cushman, Erskine has done her research, but doesn't get so bogged down in the details that she loses the story.
As for the characters themselves, Adrian is wholly unlikable in the beginning. He is selfish, self-centered, rude, judgemental, thoughtless, jealous, and impulsive. Only twelve-years-old, he has thoroughly convinced himself of the joys of battle and listens to no one who says anything to the contrary. It is no wonder that his father and horrible "Good" Aunt worry over him. Between the albinism, asthma, and stunted growth, it seems that Adrian's life choices are very limited. That is the heart of the story though. This is a coming of age story, with a young boy discovering what he truly is good at and getting some sense knocked into him along the way. The horrors of battle do that, but there are also the characters of Hugh his best friend and Bess, Adrian's cousin. Hugh is quick to point out Adrian's attitude toward his cousin is wrong and as the story progresses, Hugh proves time and again what a wonderful caring and kind person he is. Don't lose heart though, by the end Adrian is well on his way to becoming a much better person.
My only criticism is that although Adrian is small for his age, his Aunt tells everyone that he is probably done growing. I get that this is 1327, but surely puberty started around the same time if not later than it does today? It seemed rather foolish (although Good Aunt is a fool) to claim that a twelve-year old had reached the peak of their physical maturity. I also wish there was a map included in the book, but lucky me, there is always Google for that.
A solid historical fiction from an interesting time with a solid character arc. Bonus points for disability diversity. Can you even think of another kids book that featured a character with albinism?
Adrian is nearly thirteen, but you wouldn't know it if you looked at him. Asthmatic, small for his age, and with albinism, most people in his village see him as useless or at the very least, sent from the devil. Even his father, a bowyer, doesn't think Adrian is strong enough to be a bowyer's apprentice. When the Scots invade England though, Adrian sees his opportunity to prove his worth. He follows his best friend Hugh into battle, bow on his back, but war as not as glorious as he thought it would be and finding his friend even more difficult.
Set in 1327, Kathryn Erskine does a fantastic job of rooting her readers in this medieval world that almost feels like a fantasy realm. Medieval language is peppered throughout the book, not too heavily as to be unreadable for intermediate readers, but enough to feel rooted solidly in this world. Like Karen Cushman, Erskine has done her research, but doesn't get so bogged down in the details that she loses the story.
As for the characters themselves, Adrian is wholly unlikable in the beginning. He is selfish, self-centered, rude, judgemental, thoughtless, jealous, and impulsive. Only twelve-years-old, he has thoroughly convinced himself of the joys of battle and listens to no one who says anything to the contrary. It is no wonder that his father and horrible "Good" Aunt worry over him. Between the albinism, asthma, and stunted growth, it seems that Adrian's life choices are very limited. That is the heart of the story though. This is a coming of age story, with a young boy discovering what he truly is good at and getting some sense knocked into him along the way. The horrors of battle do that, but there are also the characters of Hugh his best friend and Bess, Adrian's cousin. Hugh is quick to point out Adrian's attitude toward his cousin is wrong and as the story progresses, Hugh proves time and again what a wonderful caring and kind person he is. Don't lose heart though, by the end Adrian is well on his way to becoming a much better person.
My only criticism is that although Adrian is small for his age, his Aunt tells everyone that he is probably done growing. I get that this is 1327, but surely puberty started around the same time if not later than it does today? It seemed rather foolish (although Good Aunt is a fool) to claim that a twelve-year old had reached the peak of their physical maturity. I also wish there was a map included in the book, but lucky me, there is always Google for that.
A solid historical fiction from an interesting time with a solid character arc. Bonus points for disability diversity. Can you even think of another kids book that featured a character with albinism?
August 22, 2014
I read an ARC of this book, and it will be released on August 26, 2014.
I would recommend this book for ages twelve plus.
This book is set in 1346 Northern England and follows Adrian, a boy who suffers from albinism. Other than Adrian’s friend Hugh, everyone in town thinks that he is possessed because of his pale face and light hair. Adrian and Hugh both have dreams of going into war against Scotland as “Master Archers.” The only problem is, they are both too young to enlist and everyone is afraid of Adrian. Later, when Hugh is granted permission to go to war with his dad, Adrian cannot miss the opportunity to sneak in with his friend. Adrian follows a couple of days behind Hugh in hopes of catching up to him. But when Adrian gets there, he sees things that he could have never imagined, including Hugh making a decision that could get them all killed.
I rarely read any Historical Fiction books, and I don’t know why, because every time I read one I love it. Very rarely do I find a book that has an equal amount of both character and world building, but this one did. Adrian was an amazing main character because he wasn’t perfect or invincible, he was actually quite the opposite. He was realistic, and very rarely do I see authors write a book where the characters struggle tremendously. I also love when books are written in the perspective of a boy, because they normally are not as whiny as girl characters. As I said before, I also loved the world building in this book. It was set in an awesome time period and Kathryn Erskine described it all perfectly. The formatting in this book was different than any other book that I have read. It was set up more as if you were reading Adrian’s journal, which I loved. This book was amazing, and I highly recommend picking up a copy when it comes out.
My favorite character was Adrian, because he honest and really stayed true to what he believed in.
This book had minor swearing, minor romance, and minor violence, (pertaining to war.)
For more reviews you can find me at :http://www.read-queen.com/
I would recommend this book for ages twelve plus.
This book is set in 1346 Northern England and follows Adrian, a boy who suffers from albinism. Other than Adrian’s friend Hugh, everyone in town thinks that he is possessed because of his pale face and light hair. Adrian and Hugh both have dreams of going into war against Scotland as “Master Archers.” The only problem is, they are both too young to enlist and everyone is afraid of Adrian. Later, when Hugh is granted permission to go to war with his dad, Adrian cannot miss the opportunity to sneak in with his friend. Adrian follows a couple of days behind Hugh in hopes of catching up to him. But when Adrian gets there, he sees things that he could have never imagined, including Hugh making a decision that could get them all killed.
I rarely read any Historical Fiction books, and I don’t know why, because every time I read one I love it. Very rarely do I find a book that has an equal amount of both character and world building, but this one did. Adrian was an amazing main character because he wasn’t perfect or invincible, he was actually quite the opposite. He was realistic, and very rarely do I see authors write a book where the characters struggle tremendously. I also love when books are written in the perspective of a boy, because they normally are not as whiny as girl characters. As I said before, I also loved the world building in this book. It was set in an awesome time period and Kathryn Erskine described it all perfectly. The formatting in this book was different than any other book that I have read. It was set up more as if you were reading Adrian’s journal, which I loved. This book was amazing, and I highly recommend picking up a copy when it comes out.
My favorite character was Adrian, because he honest and really stayed true to what he believed in.
This book had minor swearing, minor romance, and minor violence, (pertaining to war.)
For more reviews you can find me at :http://www.read-queen.com/
July 22, 2015
The Badger Knight by Kathryn Erskine
Categories/Genres for this class fulfilled by this book: Fiction, middle grade, historical fiction
Estimate of age level of interest: 4th-8th grade
Estimate of reading level: 5th grade +, guided reading Y
Brief description: It’s 1346, there’s a war coming between England and Scotland, and Adrian is determined to fight despite the fact that he is only 12. Adrian has albinism, and he is convinced that his poor health is the reason his father makes him attend school rather than becoming an apprentice bowyer. When his best friend Hugh runs away to the war, Adrian follows and through his adventures, learns significant lessons about friendship, identity, and war.
Identify at least 2 characteristics of this genre and subgenre and discuss how they appear in your book: Good historical fiction evokes the feeling of the time period yet also makes the story relatable for modern readers. In The Badger Knight, the setting in the Middle Ages feels authentic, and is an excellent backdrop for Adrian’s adventures which are those of a boy learning who he is in the world---something relatable to today's readers. Good historical fiction also allows us to examine historical events. Adrian’s adventures afford the opportunity to see both sides of the conflict between England and Scotland---Erskine does a great job presenting the humanity (and inhumanity) of both the English and the Scots.
In what ways and how well does the book as a whole serve its intended audience?: The fast-paced plot and myriad adventures will be satisfying for readers accustomed to adventure stories. Adrian’s transformation through the story from a whiny child to a self-aware teen makes this a good coming-of-age tale.
Links to published reviews from professional sources: Booklist 10/15/14, Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books starred 10/01/14, Christian Library Journal 01/01/15, Horn Book Guide 04/01/15, Kirkus Reviews 08/01/14, Publishers Weekly Annex 09/08/14, School Library Journal 09/01/14. Reviews available through Titlewave.
Categories/Genres for this class fulfilled by this book: Fiction, middle grade, historical fiction
Estimate of age level of interest: 4th-8th grade
Estimate of reading level: 5th grade +, guided reading Y
Brief description: It’s 1346, there’s a war coming between England and Scotland, and Adrian is determined to fight despite the fact that he is only 12. Adrian has albinism, and he is convinced that his poor health is the reason his father makes him attend school rather than becoming an apprentice bowyer. When his best friend Hugh runs away to the war, Adrian follows and through his adventures, learns significant lessons about friendship, identity, and war.
Identify at least 2 characteristics of this genre and subgenre and discuss how they appear in your book: Good historical fiction evokes the feeling of the time period yet also makes the story relatable for modern readers. In The Badger Knight, the setting in the Middle Ages feels authentic, and is an excellent backdrop for Adrian’s adventures which are those of a boy learning who he is in the world---something relatable to today's readers. Good historical fiction also allows us to examine historical events. Adrian’s adventures afford the opportunity to see both sides of the conflict between England and Scotland---Erskine does a great job presenting the humanity (and inhumanity) of both the English and the Scots.
In what ways and how well does the book as a whole serve its intended audience?: The fast-paced plot and myriad adventures will be satisfying for readers accustomed to adventure stories. Adrian’s transformation through the story from a whiny child to a self-aware teen makes this a good coming-of-age tale.
Links to published reviews from professional sources: Booklist 10/15/14, Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books starred 10/01/14, Christian Library Journal 01/01/15, Horn Book Guide 04/01/15, Kirkus Reviews 08/01/14, Publishers Weekly Annex 09/08/14, School Library Journal 09/01/14. Reviews available through Titlewave.
July 5, 2017
The lines between good and evil and friend and enemy are blurred in this new novel about a young boy seeking adventure during the Middle Ages.
Adrian of Ashcroft (aka Badger) is smaller in size than most, has white hair, and requires treatments for his “coughing fits." Because of his appearance (what today we would know as albinoism) he is often seen as a bad omen and sometimes even possessed of the devil. He is bullied by the bigger boys in the village and his Good Aunt sees him as nothing more than an addlepate. “People still say that being useless is my destiny.” But Adrian longs to prove himself in battle as an archer and when the rumors come to the village that the "Pagan Scots' are once again going to invade England, he knows this is his time. But his father only sees a little boy who can't take care of himself. Even Adrian's best friend, Hugh, older (15) and much bigger isn't going to be allowed to go. But Hugh is determined to go and fight with his father and he heads toward the battle. Adrian follows under the guise that he's going to bring Hugh back, but he really plans to join him.
So begins his quest. An adventure that will lead him into many dangers and many new understandings about his own life and the larger world around him. His stereotypes are destroyed forever as he comes to understand that his enemy is really a friend and those sworn to protect the innocent aren't necessarily deserving of trust. “Destiny. It’s both a friend and a curse.” He sees that knowledge can be more powerful than physical strength “How much more powerful is it to save a life rather than take one?” and scholarship can be the greatest power of all. “I’d like to have that power. The power to make people question.”
Badger is clever and good-hearted. He grows both physically and mentally throughout the book with the help of a rich cast of characters. Great historical details should fascinate students interested in historical fiction.
Adrian of Ashcroft (aka Badger) is smaller in size than most, has white hair, and requires treatments for his “coughing fits." Because of his appearance (what today we would know as albinoism) he is often seen as a bad omen and sometimes even possessed of the devil. He is bullied by the bigger boys in the village and his Good Aunt sees him as nothing more than an addlepate. “People still say that being useless is my destiny.” But Adrian longs to prove himself in battle as an archer and when the rumors come to the village that the "Pagan Scots' are once again going to invade England, he knows this is his time. But his father only sees a little boy who can't take care of himself. Even Adrian's best friend, Hugh, older (15) and much bigger isn't going to be allowed to go. But Hugh is determined to go and fight with his father and he heads toward the battle. Adrian follows under the guise that he's going to bring Hugh back, but he really plans to join him.
So begins his quest. An adventure that will lead him into many dangers and many new understandings about his own life and the larger world around him. His stereotypes are destroyed forever as he comes to understand that his enemy is really a friend and those sworn to protect the innocent aren't necessarily deserving of trust. “Destiny. It’s both a friend and a curse.” He sees that knowledge can be more powerful than physical strength “How much more powerful is it to save a life rather than take one?” and scholarship can be the greatest power of all. “I’d like to have that power. The power to make people question.”
Badger is clever and good-hearted. He grows both physically and mentally throughout the book with the help of a rich cast of characters. Great historical details should fascinate students interested in historical fiction.
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