Here Lies Arthur - Philip Reeve

A pair of piercing blue eyes stares out defiantly from under a pewter grey helmet. A handsome daredevil, mouth set in surly obstinacy ready to take on all comers, teachers, parents, warring chiefs from other tribes - does this teenage image of passive-aggressive behaviour look familiar? Add to that the gauntlet thrown down by the extract on the front - "everyone's heard of King Arthur But no-one's ever heard the truth...." and it's no wonder my 12 yr old son was drawn to this book! There is a creeping new phenomenon catching up on us from behind - and it may surprise us - parents, teachers ... more

This book was recently used in a novel study unit at my school with the year 7 students which proved highly successful based on such a well written book that appeals to young teens. The story follows that of the Camelot story. Reeves manages to turn the legendary events of the medieval time period into a story of friendship, blood, battles and love that all children are able to follow and appreciate. There is a change in the role of Arthur as he is given a new voice to suit the writing style of Reeve. Instead of being the king as he was depicted in history books he is altered into an ... more