Recommended Ages: Gr. 3-5

Plot Summary: Roland wants to be a knight more than anything in the world, but he knows it's not possible. To be a knight, you have to have money and be royalty, and he's just the son of a blacksmith. But a fortunate turn of events might make his dream a possibility. First, his favorite knight shows up to get help from his father. Then, an officer-in-arms from King John shows up with an announcement. The King's life was spared because of the find craftsmanship of his armor, which read Wright. To show his appreciation, he wants them to stamp all future armor with "By Royal Appointment" and one of the Wright sons is invited to become a page. Roland and Shelby are both thrilled and want the opportunity. Starting the next day, Oliver leads a competition between his sons to determine who will run the family business, and who will become a page, which could lead to being a squire, which could lead to being a knight. The competition is on. Who will win?

Setting: 1409, Middle Ages

Characters:
Roland Wright - almost 10 y/o
Shelby Wright - 11 y/o, Roland's older bro by 1.5 years,
Oliver Wright - Roland and Shelby's father, best blacksmith in the area
Nudge - Roland's pet mouse
King John - provides a feast for the wrights
Sir Gallawood - Roland's favorite knight, came to Oliver for help because his helmet was smashed in and he and his blacksmith couldn't get it off

Recurring Themes: Middle Ages, knights, armor, blacksmith, sibling rivalry, competition, physical strength, kindness, intelligence

Controversial Issues:
pg 50 "who was trying to see how much cockentrice he could fit in his mouth" [def: a medieval dish made of a pig and capon chicken)

Personal Thoughts: I really liked this one. It had good character development, humor, action, and plot. It can easily teach students a lesson. This is book 1 in a series but you don't need to read book 2.

Genre: historical fiction

Pacing: fast-medium, humor, plot moves swiftly
Characters: not too many to keep track of
Frame: everything necessary to know about the middle ages is explained within the story
Storyline:

Activity: ( )

Roland Wrigh's dream is to become a knight, but in 1490 only boys of noble birth and money can. Opportunity knocks when the King is saved during battle by Roland's father's armor and a page position is offered as a reward. To determine which brother will become a page, a contest is devised between the two brother. Liked the message in this book of always doing your best no matter what the circumstances are. ( )

This historical fiction tale takes place during the Middle Ages, (1409) to be exact, and Roland Wright wants to be a knight, despite coming from a blacksmith’s family and “non-royal” blood. Great descriptions of Middle Age lifestyle (i.e. The manufacturing of armor, blacksmithing, foods of the time etc…), the class system, and the page system of work and education are highlighted in this quick read for young readers. Great use of vocabulary used throughout, with the themes of honor, generosity and brotherly relationships are highlighted. ( )

Roland dreams of becoming a knight even though he's the son of a blacksmith and only boys from noble families can become pages. When a stranger comes to town and offers Roland the chance of a lifetime, he'll have to compete for the chance to fulfill his dreams. But can he really beat an older, stronger opponent?

Roland's a likeable, somewhat goofy protagonist and the book, an Australian import, has its funny moments. I'd recommend it for boys who are reluctant to read historical fiction or for character building book reports. This is the first book in the series. (Grades 2-4.)

Full review on my blog:
http://abbylibrarian.blogspot.com/2009/08/book-review-roland-wright-future-knigh... ( )