A not very enthralling YA historical novel about Robert the Bruce. Hunter really didn't do much to bring the period to life, and her protagonist mostly just wanders around Scotland watching battles from a distance. Her portrayal of the warring factions is very black and white, with everyone on the Bruce's side as good and virtuous, while the English and those who side with them are all cruel villains. ( )

This book opens with a manhunt. Martin is hunting rabbits for his family's dinner when he sees a man being pursued by English soldiers. He decides to help the man escape. Later the man arrives at his home to thank him for his help. The man is actually Robert the Bruce, King of the Scots. He asks Martin and his brother to help him fight for Scotland's freedom from the English. Martin is no soldier. But he agrees to go with the king and help him in other ways. Martin begins as a page, but Robert soon discovers his courage and intelligence, and asks him to serve as a courier and a spy, a swift rider to bring him news that will help in their fight.

I really enjoyed this book. I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction, but I enjoy it when it's well done. I learned a lot from this book about warfare and Scottish history. But I recommend this with a few reservations. It would be perfectly fine for any adult or older teen. But even though it's written for younger teens, I feel that it was really violent. I'm probably a little too conservative here, since most teens and even kids shrug off violence without seeming to be affected. But Martin witnesses some horrible events, and even though these are not described and are left to the imagination, for some kids with a lot of imagination, this might be a little tough to read. However, for kids who are fine with that, this would be a good book to read and discuss. It brings up issues like injustice, cruelty, prejudice, and the duty one owes to one's country. I think boys will especially enjoy this one. Martin is a great character and I kept wanting to know what would happen next. ( )

Lexile: 1120
Reading Recovery: 32
DRA: 44
Fountas Pinnel Guided Reading: Z