Last weekend I had the enviable pleasure of attending the Nan Boothby Library's Medieval Festival. I say enviable for two reasons.
Last weekend I had the enviable pleasure of attending the Nan Boothby Library's Medieval Festival. I say enviable for two reasons. First, my daughter is a lover of everything dragon and my husband was unable to attend and witness her awestruck excitement. Secondly, the folks at the library put on an excellent show with extensive community involvement and flare. There were knights, Vikings, princesses, a king and queen and to some extent dragons. If the library had been able to materialize a real dragon, I would believe they were capable of anything. Along with all of entertainment and attractions, there were also medieval-themed merchants and enthusiasts with a variety of goods for sale and show. This is how I met Bart Eriksson, a Cochranite who has written a captivating young adult book set in the medieval era called Escape From Rindorn.
Jonathon, an orphaned peasant boy and small time troublemaker, lives in the Town of Rindorn. After carrying out of a particularly cheeky prank he is arrested and his name is listed on a public execution notice. Just as Jonathon figures he's pulled his last ruse, he discovers that he has some very powerful and rich friends that want him alive. As he flees for his life, he also discovers that there are others who wish him dead and that he is now caught up in a whole new world of intrigue and risk and that he is in for the ride of his life.
Escape From Rindorn is a fun, action packed adventure that moves gracefully from one encounter with foes to next with anticipation and mystery. While I believe that it is best for a young adult reader, I became absorbed in the story and found myself caught up in the plot. It is a real page-turner. With sword fights, castles, underground tunnels and plenty of escapes from the clutches of the enemy, this book has something for everyone. Our hero finds that heart, sacrifice, courage, the loyalty of friends and even love can help conquer all. Even though one is a member of a small group, with right on their side they can triumph over the odds to be victorious. I give Bart Eriksson's book a 4/5.
For those interested, Escape From Rindorn is available at The Heavenly Outhouse and Tea and Other Things.
