The Knight’s Tales by Gerald Morris

A juvenile retelling of the Arthurian legends. This series follows the knights of Camelot as they quest and defend the helpless. Recommendations vary from ages 6 up to middle grades. Each book centers on a specific Knight of Camelot and his adventures. Written by a self-described Arthurian author.

Reading Level: Ages 6-9
Read Aloud: 10+ (see Mom Thoughts)

These books are a miss for me. While I absolutely love the Arthur legends, the beauty of them is the chivalry and the sacrifice of the knights. This series is irreverent and crass at times. I don’t agree with the young age recommendations and would hold off on these until 10+. At an older age they will understand the humor though they may still be bothered by the constant romance. I don’t see boys enjoying the innuendos, kissing and flirting. The stories could have done without all of that completely. The illustrations play a big role in these books and they are well done and quite humorous. I would not categorize them as beginning chapter books because of the vocabulary, humor, and context used.

Language:
The vocabulary used at times is elementary and then vacillates medieval. I don’t see someone of a younger age understanding these words as they are often not given context. There are many instances of fake cursing as in “heavens sake”, “where the duce”, “dashed well”, “you duffer” and quite a long series of jokes where Lancelot has a wound in his bottom and many comments are made about it.

Questionable Behaviors:
Sorcery and the dark arts are mentioned though it is only used as a ruse to fool someone and not in a magical way at all.

Sexual Content & Other Things to Know:
No overtly sexual content but I was surprised how much flirting and romance there were in these, especially as it is recommended for young ages and mostly towards boys. There is jealousy between men and women, in love and flirting mentioned, ladies scheming against Lancelot to marry him and many “so handsome” remarks. There is kissing, hugging and “flinging into each other’s arms”. There are several instances of marrying someone you just met, “most beautiful lady” contests, and men trying to steal away a lady that has been “won”.

This review is written by Good Book Mom contributor, LeeAnne. To read more about LeeAnne, click HERE.

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