The Sword in the Stone by T.H. White

Reviewed by Jessica

This is the fantastic story of young King Arthur as he grows up in the “Age of Chivalry.” The Sword in the Stone by T.H. White follows the story of young Arthur, nicknamed “Wart.”

As Wart grows up in a colorful world of pretty damsels and chivalrous knights, young Arthur slowly learns the code of the gentlemen in his time. Under the guidance of his tutor, Merlyn, Wart becomes an expert in falconry, jousting, and swordplay. Wart is also transformed into various animals by Merlyn to experience different aspects of life.

One reason I liked this book is because I can relate to Wart’s sibling relationships. He lives with Sir Ector and Sir Ector’s son, Kay. While Kay is destined to become a knight, all Arthur will ever be is Kay’s squire. Arthur is constantly being overshadowed by Kay, all because he is not Sir Ector’s real son. This makes the book more interesting to me because I also have an older sibling, and I know how it feels, being outweighed. I can feel every emotion that Arthur is feeling, and it makes the book more interesting.

Another reason I liked this book is because of the format. I liked the way the author uses Ye Old Anglish, and it really helps transport the reader into the book. Even though the spelling is awkward, it makes the story feel more realistic. Wart is not living in the modern world, but a medieval one, which makes the format even more imperative.

The Sword in the Stone, The Once and Future King, and The Book of Merlyn are the books in the fantastic Arthurian Romance trilogy by the author T.H. White. And I would give The Sword in the Stone a 10 out of 10; I recommend this book to anyone who has a taste for a bit of historical fiction and enterprising protagonists, boys and girls. Find all about the fabled King Arthur by heading to the library and checking this book out!

Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers, 288 pages