British Middle Ages—Book Summaries

    English History     Scotland and Ireland     Biography     Legends
    Adapted Literature     Historical Fiction     European Middle Ages

English History

Stories from English History   by Hilda Skae
This book recounts six stories from early English history, written for grammar school students, beginning with the Celtic hero Caradoc and ending with Sir Francis Drake. Other tales include the story of Augustine of Kent and the conversion of the Saxons to Christianity, William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings, King John and the murder of his rival Prince Arthur, and the story of the Black Prince at Crecy and Poitiers. 41 credits

Cambridge Historical Reader   by Cambridge Press
This grammar school level introduction to British history covers many of the most important characters and incidents of British history, and is richly illustrated. It covers many of the most important and romantic incidents of English history, from the rebellion of Boadicea to the reign of Queen Victoria, in a manner that is easily accessible to elementary students. 72 credits

Our Island Story   by H. E. Marshall
Marshall's storybook of English history is an undeniable classic, popular with generations of British children. It takes a romantic view of English history, combining the most well-known stories from British history with legends and folklore. It begins with the legends of Albion and Brutus, and covers Roman Britain, the British Middle Ages, and the rise of England through the Hanoverian Kings. 230 credits

The Story of the English   by Helene Guerber
Middle school level introduction to British history, from the age of the Celts and Druids to the Victorian Age. Many of the most romantic stories from English history are recounted in simple terms for school aged children. Includes a great many famous anecdotes and legends from English history. Stories about Arthur, Alfred, Canute, Lady Godiva, William the Conqueror, Thomas Becket, Richard Coeur d' Leon, and many others English heroes are featured.145 credits

The Story of England   by S. B. Harding
This book, which can be used as a middle-school history of England, provides a thorough and succinct introduction to the history of the British Isles from the early Britons to the end of the Victorian era. Besides giving a chronological account of events, a brief explanation of some of the important industrial and social changes are discussed. The later chapters focus on the difficulties of administering an enormous empire spanning the entire globe.170 credits

English History Stories - I   by Alfred J. Church
This is the first of three volumes of Church's Stories from English History series. It covers 50 B.C. to 1360 A.D. and includes stories of Caesar and Boadicea, the coming of the Saxons, Alfred the Great, Canute, Harold, William the Conqueror and the Norman Conquest, Henry II and Thomas a Becket, Richard I the Crusader, the Magna Carta, Bannockburn, the battles of Crecy, Calias, Poitiers and others. 77 credits

English History Stories - II   by Alfred J. Church
This is the second volume of Church's Stories from English History series. It covers 1360 to 1647 A.D. and includes stories of Wat Tyler's Rebellion, Agincourt, the War of the Roses, William Caxton, St. Thomas More, Queens Mary and Elizabeth, Raleigh, Drake and the Great Armada, James I, Charles I, the English Civil War, and others. 67 credits

Tudors and Stuarts   by M. B. Synge
This book presents an excellent intermediate level history of 16th and 17th century England. The Tudor section provides details of how the Reformation came about, including the closing of the monasteries and widespread religious persecutions. The Stuart section explains the rising conflict between parliament and the monarchy, the relationship between religious and political freedom, and the rise of political parties and religious toleration. 120 credits

Historical Tales - English   by Charles Morris
This selection of stories from English history includes many well-known episodes, but also a variety of lesser known, but romantic events. Morris is an excellent writer and his stories are told with enough detail and dramatic flair to be of interest to an older student or adult. Although there are many familiar heroes, a good number are less well-known, such as Elfrida, Hereward, Arabella Stuart, and Bonnie Prince Charles.142 credits

Scotland and Ireland

Celtic Tales   by Louey Chisholm
Three traditional Celtic fairy tales beautifully retold. One story is about four children who are turned into swans by their evil stepmother. The other two are stories of ill-fated lovers. 38 credits

Our Little Celtic Cousin   by Evaleen Stein
The story of Ferdiad, a boy of Ireland in the time of High King Brian Boru, when the Danes were pillaging the Irish countryside. How his foster-father Angus becomes poet to the High King and how Ferdiad himself recovers a lost treasure. Gives a glimpse into the customs and social life of the Celts, with special emphasis on their artistic achievements, including the Book of Kells and the stories of Cuculain.37 credits

Tales from Irish History   by Alice Birkhead
This book features true tales from Irish history from the age of St. Patrick to the Fenian brotherhood. It features both legendary tales from the Celtic kings, and historical characters from Boru to O'Connell. Other famous Irish tales include stories of the Kildares and O'Neils, the invasion of Cromwell, the battle of the Boyne, and the stories of Dean Swift and Daniel O'Connell. The stories end in 1886 when the first bill for Irish Home rule was submitted to the British parliament. 66 credits

King of Ireland's Son   by Padraic Colum
Book of legends involving the adventurous son of the King of Ireland. Set in a mystical Celtic island in pre-roman times, the prince gets involved with an enchanter's daughter, the king of cats, and many other interesting characters. 105 credits

Peeps at History - Ireland   by Beatrice Home
This history of Ireland is wonderfully short and clear, and yet it covers all the major events in Irish history from the Celtic era and the arrival of St. Patrick, to the rebellion during the Napoleonic Wars, and the period immediately preceding Irish Independence. The book is concise and well illustrated, and an excellent introduction to Irish History. 44 credits

The Boys' Cuchulain   by Eleanor Hull
The legend of Cuchulain, the greatest of the Celtic warriors it still a favorite in all of Ireland. Also known as the 'Hound of Ulster', Cuchulain defended Ulster from Queen Maeve when only a boy. He is sent by jealous neighbors to Scotland to train as a warrior but after adventures there, returns to claim his bride Emer. After many more adventures in Ireland he is tricked by his nemesis Queen Maeve, and perishes in battle. The story of Cuchulain is heroic, non-stop action and a delight for readers of all ages.118 credits

History of Ireland   by George Towle
This outstanding history of Ireland is a fascinating account of the troubled land that suffered more centuries of brutal oppression, land confiscation, and forced colonization at the hands of Britain, than any other nation. The history of Ireland is critical for understanding the manner in which the aristocracy of England, from Tudor times to the 19th century, controlled the government and implemented policies intended to benefits its members and favored citizens, with utter disregard for the rights of other peoples. Irish history is the best possible antidote to the sometimes overly rosy portrait of English history that is typically presented to young people. 109 credits

Scotch Twins   by Lucy F. Perkins
Jean and Jock Campbell are 12 year-old twins who live in the highlands of Scotland near the turn of the century. After helping out on their parents farm, cleaning the house, tending the rabbits, and observing the Sabbath, the twins befriend a new neighbor. Their adventures with their new friend involves poachers, game-keepers and the death of the Auld Laird. 59 credits

Scotland's Story   by H. E. Marshall
A child's history of Scotland, from legendary days through the time when the kingdoms of Scotland and England were joined together. Relates in vigorous prose the thrilling exploits of the heroes and heroines who defended Scotland from its English invaders. Includes the stories of Macbeth, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, the poet king and the beautiful lady of the garden, the Glen of Weeping and many others. 186 credits

Peeps at History - Scotland    by G. E. Mitton
This short history of Scotland covers all the most important events from the Christianization of Scotland by St. Columba to the Jacobite Wars of the Early 18th century. It covers the well known stories of William Wallace and Robert Bruce, but also provides interesting sketches of other early Scottish Kings, the six James, the Story of Mary Stuart, the English Civil War in Scotland, the Jacobite Wars, and the role of the Highlander clans in Scottish history. 44 credits

Biography

Our Island Saints   by Amy Steedman
Gentle stories of saints who lived their lives of service in the British Isles during the Middle Ages. Includes tales of St. Alban, St. Patrick, St. Bridget, St. Cuthbert, St. Columba, St. Margaret of Scotland, and others.75 credits

The Story of Raleigh   by M. D. Kelly
Sir Walter Raleigh was one of the most famous courtiers of Queen Elizabeth. He is best known for his efforts to establish an English colonies in the New World, first in Newfoundland, then at Jamestown in Virginia. Raleigh was also a literary figure. He introduced Edmund Spenser (of Faerie Queen Fame), to Elizabeth's court, and wrote several books himself during his long imprisonment under King James I. 38 credits

The Story of Francis Drake   by Mrs. O. Elton
Sir Francis Drake was one of the most colorful characters in Elizabethan England. He was a sworn enemy of the Spanish and spent many years plundering their ships and towns in the new world, both to enrich himself and to strike a blow at England's most threatening enemy. He was only the second European, after Magellan, to pass Cape Horn in South America and sail around the world, but it is his daring feats and audacious exploits against Spain for which he is best known.38 credits

The Story of Robert Bruce   by Jeanie Lang
This story of Robert Bruce, hero of Scotland, is an action packed tale of one of the greatest patriotic heroes of Scotland. Deprived of his crown by Edward I. of England, who had completely subjugated Scotland by the time he came of age, he won back Scotland's independence against terrific odds. With lots of hand-to-hand combat, treachery, and larger-than-life action, the story of Robert the Bruce is one of the greatest adventure-dramas in English history. 47 credits

Great Englishmen   by M. B. Synge
Sixteen short biographies of eminent, Englishmen are given. Although there are many important men of action portrayed in this volume, including Nelson, Alfred the Great, Clive, and the Black Prince, many men whose accomplishments were in the realm of culture are given also. Some of these include the Venerable Bede, Milton, Isaac Newton, William Caxton, George Stephenson, and others. 63 credits

Great Englishwomen   by M. B. Synge
Sixteen short biographies of eminent, but not overly famous Englishwomen are given. Included are several queens, but also a variety of women accomplished in cultural or professional fields, including Angelica Kaufman (an artist), Mary Somerville (a scientist), and Elizabeth Fry (a prison reformer), and many others. 52 credits

Through Britain with Cromwell   by H. E. Marshall
This biography of Cromwell was written with geography in mind. During the English Civil War Cromwell fought battles all over England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland so the author uses the story of his life to inspire interest in the landmarks of the British Isles. The fascinating story of Cromwell's life is not hindered, but rather enhanced by the special attention to environment, and numerous maps. 58 credits

Days of Alfred the Great   by E. M. Tappan
The story of the life of Alfred the Great, is presented in a manner that is of great interest to younger students. The book places great emphasis on the childhood of Alfred, and tells how at twenty-two he inherited a land overrun by savage pirates,—a restless ignorant, defenseless land. After spending most of his youth in conflict with the invaders, the final chapters tell how he fought the Danes and restored the country to a condition of peace and safety.94 credits

Days of Queen Elizabeth   by E. M. Tappan
This story of the life of Queen Elizabeth, the famous English sovereign who guided England through the troubled waters of the latter half of the sixteenth century, was written to appeal to grammar and middle school aged students. A good deal of attention is paid to the formative, youthful years of princess Elizabeth, and the later chapters include stories of English voyages of exploration and the defeat of the Spanish armada.88 credits

Days of William the Conqueror   by E. M. Tappan
This story of the life of William the Conqueror, telling of his boyhood in Normandy, beset by dangers, is written with great flourish in a manner that is especially appealing to young boys. From his earliest years, his life was one of adventure and conquest. As a youth he was knitted by the King of France, who eventually became his worst enemy. Afterward he proved himself the greatest warrior in all of Europe and completed his victorious career with his daring conquest of England.96 credits

Oliver Cromwell   by Estelle Ross
This biography of Oliver Cromwell, the fierce puritan general who led the Roundheads to victory in the English Civil War and formed the Commonwealth government very ably describes the problems of the age, and Cromwell's role in permanently transforming the English monarchy. It is an excellent intermediate biography, suitable for mature middle school or high school students who would like to better understand this critical period in English history. 68 credits

Alselm   by E. M. Wilmot-Buxton
This book provides excellent insights into the state of the Church during the twelfth century, when the "investiture controversy" conflict raged, and the independence of the Church was threatened from all sides. What could be a dry subject is presented in a fresh, personal, and compelling way by focusing on the power struggle between the gentle, patient, "saint like" Anslem, and the vicious, grasping, blasphemous, and tyrannical William Rufus.85 credits

Book of English Martyrs   by E. M. Wilmot-Buxton
This fascinating book recounts the stories of English martyrs persecuted during the 16th century reformation. It includes the well-known stories of More, Fisher, Campion, and Margaret of Clitherow, but also the stories such as the Martyrs of York, the victims of the Northern Rising, and lesser known martyrs such as Ralph Sherwood and Philip Arundel. Most valuably, it tells the story of the vicious, villianous activities of the chief spies and persecutors of English Catholics. The stories of the sadistic tormentors of English Catholics,—such as Richard Topcliffe, Francis Walsingham, and George Eliot—should be as well known as that of Torquemada or the Duke of Alba. 93 credits

Cardinal Pole   by C. M. Antony
Reginald Pole, a Catholic Cardinal of England during the reign of Henry VIII, lived much of his life in exile. Pole was the cousin of Henry's father, but was younger than the king, and the Pole family was among the highest ranking nobles of England to maintain their Catholic identity after the Reformation. Cardinal Pole played a leading role in attempting to reconcile the church of England after the break with Rome. Altlhough Pole himself did not die a martyr, he suffered a fate even worse; that of witnessing the torture, martyrdom, and betrayal of his entire family by Henry VIII. His mother and elder brother were both executed for treason, and other members of his family tortured and exiled. 70 credits

William the Conqueror   by Jacob Abbott
Even before invading England to claim the throne, William the Conqueror was recognized throughout Europe as the greatest warrior of his time. His entire life was a series of battles and rebellions in which he was uniformly successful. He was often hated but always respected by his subjects, and his iron-fisted policies were more effective in ruling England than in managing his own family. 80 credits

Margaret of Anjou   by Jacob Abbott
It is hard to understand why Margaret of Anjou, a central character of the War of the Roses, is not more well-known. She was an intelligent, driven, and fearless woman who essentially ruled England for her husband, Henry VI, during his reign. This book covers the events leading up to the War of the Roses and helps to untangle the confusing threads of that confrontation. 91 credits

Richard I   by Jacob Abbott
This story of Richard I begins with his fascinating parents, Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry the II, founders of the Plantagenet line of English kings. Once Richard ascends to the throne the story moves to the Holy Land, scene of the second Crusade. When Richard arrived in Acre, he found that vastly more energy was spent in posturing and infighting among the crusaders than in actually fighting the Mohammedans, but through it all, he managed to maintain a glamorous appearance of chivalry and apparent victory. 95 credits

Richard II   by Jacob Abbott
The first several chapters of Richard II recap the turbulent reigns of the previous Plantagenet kings including John Lackland and the three Edwards. Several chapters are then dedicated to the Black Prince, Richard's father, who achieved great fame at the battles of Crecy and Poitiers. The reign of Richard II was most notable for the Wat Tyler rebellion and the fact of that he was eventually deposed. 100 credits

Richard III   by Jacob Abbott
The War of the Roses did not end with the death of Henry VI and the exile of Queen Margaret. Although Edward IV eventually gained the throne, the York family's struggles were not over. On Edward's death, Richard III usurped the throne from Edward's sons. The book covers the reign of Edward IV, the usurpation of Richard III, and the eventual triumph of Henry Tudor, which brought the War of the Roses to a close. 94 credits

Mary Queen of Scots   by Jacob Abbott
Mary Queen of Scots was the arch-rival of Queen Elizabeth. As monarch of Scotland, she too reigned over a kingdom that was torn by struggles between Catholics and Protestants. However, while Elizabeth was able to maintain power, Mary lost her throne and ultimately became Elizabeth's prisoner. Mary was celebrated for her beauty and gentleness, yet it was precisely her feminine appeal and unhappy marriages that caused her downfall. 77 credits

Charles I   by Jacob Abbott
Charles I had the misfortune to reign during a period when Parliament, mainly representing the rising merchant class of England, had the temerity to assert its growing power. His reckless youth was spent carousing with the infamous Duke of Buckingham, and his mid-years were spent quarreling with parliament. His misdeeds were no worse than many of his predecessors, but he paid a much heavier price. After losing a civil war, he spent his last few years in captivity and was the only English king ever executed.78 credits

Charles II   by Jacob Abbott
Charles II's youth was spent in exile in France, while his father was kept in captivity by Parliament. Though he nominally became King of England at his father's death, he was prevented from assuming the throne until the death of Cromwell. His story covers some highlights of the Commonwealth, including his dramatic escape from Cromwell's army and complicated power shuffling between Parliament, the army, and various Royalist factions. Some lowlights of his actual reign include the Great Plague, the Fire of London, and the Dutch invasion. 83 credits

Queen Elizabeth   by Jacob Abbott
The life of Elizabeth encompassed the turbulent reigns of her brother Edward VI and sister Mary as well as her own reign of nearly 45 years. She ascended to the throne amid great controversy between Catholics and Protestants, yet she successfully navigated through these treacherous times and achieved a great deal of stability and prosperity for England. Her reign was populated with very colorful characters including Drake, Raleigh, and the Earl of Leicester. The Spanish Armada, which occurred late in her reign, was one of the most important battles in history. 74 credits

Alfred the Great   by Jacob Abbott
There are many examples of tyranny and depravity among English monarchs, but few examples of courage and virtue that compare to the legacy of Alfred the Great. Alfred was king of England during a time when the Saxons were under assault from Danish sea-pirates who were destroying the fabric of their civilization. But instead of allowing the Saxon civilization to be destroyed, he unified it, strengthened it, and established churches and centers of learning and culture.0 credits

John and Sebastion Cabot   by Frederick Ober
John and Sebastian Cabot were Italian sailors who were early explorers of North America. Like Columbus, John Cabot sought sponsors for his voyage outside Italy and in 1496 was commissioned by Henry VII Tudor to sailed for the new world. In 1497 he is thought to have landed in Canada, which gave England a claim to North America. His son Sebastian also sailed for England and was one of the first of many who sailed under the British flag in search of the 'Northwest Passage.' 92 credits

Sir Walter Raleigh   by Frederick Ober
This biography is part of a series on the early explorers of America, so it focuses primarily on Sir Walter Raleigh's expeditions to the new world. Raleigh is famous both for his contributions to establishing the first American settlement at Jamestown and also for his adventures in South America, in search of El Dorado. As one of Queen Elizabeth's favorite courtiers, he was involved in much palace intrigue, and was eventually imprisoned by Elizabeth's successor, James I.94 credits

Legends and Ballads

Stories of Beowulf    by H. E. Marshall
This volume retells the famous Anglo-Saxon saga in the manner of a folktale, with the heroic qualities emphasized. It relates how Beowulf, the hero of the Saxons, came to Daneland and how he overcame the ogre Grendel and the water witch. It closes with the story of how the fire dragon warred with the Goth folk and how Beowulf fought his last fight.32 credits

Stories of Robin Hood   by H. E. Marshall
This lively retelling of the Stories of Robin Hood chronicles the events of the time in which Robin Hood lived, while the heroic Richard the Lion-hearted was absent from England and the kingdom was under the rule of his devious brother. The story recounts how and why he came to live in the Greenwood, and the adventures he had there with Little John, Maid Marian, and the Sheriff of Nottingham in a manner attractive to youngsters.40 credits

Stories of Guy of Warwick   by H. E. Marshall
This story tells of the wondrous deeds of Guy of Warwick, a gallant knight of old who falls in love with a noble lady and must prove his valor with deeds of chivalry. Most of the stories of this illustrious knights of old England are legendary, and feature monsters, giants and lions and well as villains of every stripe. 35 credits

Stories from King Arthur   by Mary Macgregor
This book tell six stories from the legends of King Arthur and his knights. Most, however, involve the adventures of knights of the round table, are less well-known than the stories of Arthur himself. Four of the stories are love stories between knights and their fair ladies: Geraint and Enid, Lancelot and Elaine, Pelleas and Ettarde, and Gareth and Lynette. The final two stories involve the great heroes, Sir Galahad and King Arthur.37 credits

Stories from the Ballads   by Mary Macgregor
This collection of fairy tales from Scotland were derived from the ancient Gaelic ballads. They include stories such as Tamlane, Lizzie Lindsay, Hynde Etin, Hynde Hund, and others. 37 credits

King Arthur and His Knights   by Maude R. Warren
Twenty-one stories from the Arthurian legends specially selected and adapted for children and told in simple well-written prose. The stirring tales of these chivalrous knights awaken the reader's admiration for courage and gentleness and high sense of honor essential in all ages.78 credits

Stories of the Border Marches   by John Lang
Marches refers to the region in Northern England near the Scottish border. It was a rugged and violent area where hundreds of battles between England and Scotland were fought over many centuries. Some of these Stories from the Border Marches are historical in nature; some are purely legendary, but all show the indomitable character of the rugged folk who dared to populate that lovely, but violent region. 131 credits

Adapted Literature

Stories from Chaucer   by Janet Kelman
This book retells several famous stories from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales in a manner appealing to young children. Most of the selections, including the Franklin's Tale, the Knight's Tale, The Clerk's Tale, and the Lawyer's Tale are romantic love stories, suitable for novice readers. 35 credits

Ivanhoe Told to the Children   by Ethel Lindsay
Sir Walter Scott's Ivanhoe is set in 12th century England, during the Reign of Richard I, when Saxons and Normans were still at odds, and feudal customs still in force. This children's version is short and easily read, but it well preserves the romance, mystery, excitement and chivalric heroism of the beloved original. The story tells of a disinherited Saxon knight, and hero of the crusades, who helps to bring Saxon and Norman together as one people. 42 credits

Robinson Crusoe    by James Baldwin
This story of Robinson Crusoe for children was adapted to be easy to read for young children. It Relates how the shipwrecked sailor makes a new life for himself on the island, crafting shelter, food, and clothing for himself from the few tools he rescued from the ship and what he is able to find on the island. Living alone for over twenty years before he is finally rescued, he reinvents almost everything necessary for daily sustenance. Even very young children delight in this inspiring tale.71 credits

Stories from Pilgrim's Progress   by Mary Macgregor
This version of Bunyan's Classic Christian allegory is adapted for young children and is very effective as a short but entertaining morality tale. It tells the story of a Christian pilgrim on his journey along the 'straight and narrow' road. Along the route he encounters such characters as 'Obstinate', 'Pliable', 'Hopeful', and 'Goodwill', and passes the 'Slough of Despond' and 'Vanity Fair'. His is briefly imprisoned at 'Doubting Castle', the domicile of 'Giant Despair' before escaping and continuing on his journey to the 'celestial city.' 38 credits

Stories from Robinson Crusoe    by John Lang
The Story of Robinson Crusoe was one of the first widely read novels in the English language, and it follows the adventures of an Englishman stranded on a remote Island in the Caribbean for almost thirty years. The original book is philosophical as well as an adventure story, but the underlying story is of utmost interest, especially to imaginative boys. This rendition is a very well done simplification suitable for grammar school age students. 37 credits

Stories from the Faerie Queen   by Jeanie Lang
The Faerie Queen is one of the best known epic poems in the English language. Written during the reign of Queen Elizabeth, it is allegorical in nature, but from a child's point of view is merely an exceptionally romantic collection of fairy stories and a very appropriate choice for a simplified adaptation. Queen Elizabeth is represented by the Faerie Queen, who rules over Fairy land (England). The stories of the brave knights and beautiful maidens that inhabit Fairly land are cleverly interlinked and often told from the viewpoints of various heroes. 42 credits

Stories from Shakespeare   by E. Nesbit
Twenty stories from Shakespeare are retold in lively prose by a superlative storyteller. The author makes Shakespeare's greatest plays accessible to young children by relating the stories that form the core of the plays. Her graceful, vivid retellings are the perfect introduction to Shakespeare's works. The plays included in Nesbits collection include Shakespeare's most famous comedies and tragedies but few of his historical works. 83 credits

Tales from Shakespeare   by Charles Lamb
First published in 1807, these simple retellings of the plots of Shakespeare's plays have delighted generations of children, while serving as an excellent introduction to the dramas of our greatest playwright. Shakespeare's own language is used as much as possible to accustom children to the English of the Elizabethan age and so make easier their transition to the reading of the plays themselves. Numerous black and white illustrations by Louis Rhead complement the text. 176 credits

The Chaucer Story Book   by E. M. Tappan
This is a charming retelling of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, complete with an introduction to the interesting characters who meet on a pilgrimage to the tomb of Thomas a Becket, and tell each other tales to pass the time. Some of the well-known tales include the story of Chanticleer the Rooster, Patient Griselda, The Story of the Summoner and the Tale of the Wife of Bath, as well as many other.59 credits

English Literature    by H. E. Marshall
A terrific and accessible introduction to English literature by one of Britain's greatest authors of juvenile history. All of the major authors and literature of England are covered, from the Celtic ballads to the nineteenth century greats such as Dickens and Thackeray. Short examples of most of the literature is included, along with fascinating biographies.329 credits

Historical Fiction

Our Little Saxon Cousin   by Julia D. Cowles
This book tells the story of a Saxon boy name Turgar who lived at the during the age of Alfred the Great. He was educated at Crowland abbey and was present during its sacking by the Danes. The story tells the details of his life at the abbey and shows how the monasteries were an important part of mediaeval life. After many adventures, Turgar joins the army of Alfred the Great to help keep Britain safe from the Danish invaders. 34 credits

Men of Iron   by Howard Pyle
This classic tells the story of the coming of age of a young squire, living in England at the turn of the 15th century. The action starts just a few months after the treacherous Richard II was deposed, and replaced on the throne by his cousin, Henry IV. Myles Falworth was the son of one of the counselors of Richard II, and his youth and coming of age is much influenced by the accompanying palace politics.119 credits

The Chantry Priest of Barnet   by Alfred J. Church
This story takes place during the War of the Roses, but it does not give a comprehensive overview of the conflict and a prior knowledge of the war is helpful in following the plot. The story told by a young monk who happens to be present at several of the important battles. Many details are given concerning abbey life in England shortly before the monasteries were dissolved during the English Reformation.89 credits

With the King at Oxford   by Alfred J. Church
This story follows the life of an English gentleman who enlists with the cavaliers during the English Civil War. Between battles he returns to Oxford to complete his studies, but the disruptions of the war wreak havoc on all normal vocations. In addition to learning some details about English life in the seventeenth century and the early conflict between the king and parliament, a great deal of history specific to Oxford University is also covered. 86 credits

Count of the Saxon Shore   by Alfred J. Church
The hero of this book is a Roman-British naval commander in charge of keeping pirates away from the British Isles near the turn of the fourth century. During his watch, the empire is beginning its final collapse. The legionnaires leave Britain, the provinces are left to govern themselves, and eventually he is told to abandon his post. From that point the Celtic Britons are left alone to battle the Scottish Picts and Saxon invaders by themselves. 108 credits

European Middle Ages

Famous Men of the Middle Ages   by John Haaren
Attractive biographical sketches of thirty-five of the most prominent characters in the history of the Middle Ages, from the barbarian invasions to the invention of the printing press. Subjects include Rollo the Viking, Henry the Fowler, Canute the Great, Peter the Hermit, Marco Polo, and many more. Each story is told in a clear, simple manner, and is well calculated to awaken and stimulate the youthful imagination. 98 credits

Famous Men of Modern Times   by John Haaren
Biographical sketches of thirty-three of the most famous characters from the age of the Renaissance in Europe to the late nineteenth century. Included are well-known greats such as Charles V, Solyman the Magnificent, Drake, Raleigh, Richelieu, Louis XIV, Newton, Peter the Great, Washington, Pitt, and Napoleon as well as many others. 119 credits

The Story of Europe   by H. E. Marshall
This book presents the broader movements of European history, emphasizing the main factors which have gone into the development of the various European states from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Reformation. The history of England is included only when that country plays a prominent part in the politics of Europe. A full treatment of the period immediately following the fall of the Roman Empire is given, since that period provides the necessary key to future developments. Maps, timelines, and genealogy charts of the various royal houses of Europe contribute to making this book an excellent resource for the study of the Middle Ages in Europe.108 credits

Awakening of Europe   by M. B. Synge
Book III of the Story of the World series covers the reformation in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and England, as well as the settlement of colonies in America. Special attention is given to the rise of England and the Netherlands as sea powers, and the corresponding fall of Spain. The rise of Russia, Prussia, and Austria in the 17th and 18th centuries is also presented. 90 credits

Discovery of New Worlds   by M. B. Synge
Book II of the Story of the World series covers the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the conversion of the Germanic tribes of Europe to Christianity, the rise of Islam in the east, the European Middle Ages, the Crusades, and finally the age of exploration. The book concludes with the discoveries of Columbus and the Spanish settlements in the New World.85 credits