Eileen Cameron

2015 marks the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, which was signed in Runnymede in June 1215.
The perfect moment for this splendid picture book.

In Rupert's Parchment we hear the story of the actual event from 12 year old Rupert, who is the son of a parchment maker.
The bishop's clerk arrives at the door of his father's workshop and requests the best parchment for the meeting in Runnymede. It turns out, that the bishop's young messenger has fallen ill and Rupert jumps at the chance to help out, as it means he will be able to be in Runnymede and see the events first hand.
We watch King John's arrival in the meadow by the river Thames and eavesdrop when the barons and bishops present their demands to the King. We see how the final agreement is written down and join in the celebrations.

At the end of the book we find an excellent summary, "All about Magna Carta" and a glossary, followed by a comparison of the Magna Carta and the American Bill of Rights from 1791.
The book offers a very good understanding of the importance of events in 1215 and the far reach of what happened so long ago to our laws and legal system in the UK and the USA today.
The character of Rupert is very likeable and well chosen and one children can identify with.
The illustrations are superb and tie in perfectly with the story.
We also learn how parchment was made.

The book has turned out to be a very helpful tool during lessons as it brings history alive in a way children enjoy. And the lessons we enjoy are the ones we remember most.
Highly recommended.… (meer)