Book Description

"For a child poised between Harry Potter and Tolkien, there really is nothing better than Sutcliff."—The New Yorker "Rosemary Sutcliff is a spellbinder."—New York Times Book Review "The preeminent master of British historical fiction for young people."—Kirkus Reviews Cherished author Rosemary Sutcliff presents three stories of youthful courage and fidelity in ancient times. The Chief's Daughter: A Welsh chieftain's daughter helps a young Irish boy—captured from a raiding party and held prisoner by her father—make his escape, risking the wrath of her gods and her Clan. A Circlet of Oak Leaves: A horse-trader is reminded of his past with the Roman Legions, of the life-changing, secret favor he once did a friend and the glory he will never be able to openly claim. A Crown of Wild Olives: A tentative, but caring, friendship is formed between two young runners, a Spartan and an Athenian, who will compete against each other for the Olympic Olive Crown and the honor of their warring nations. These stories are clever and powerful, the plots twisting and turning unexpectedly while the characters remain always true to their own moral codes. Indeed, in each story the characters are full of heart and human failings—and feelings that transcend time and history.