Want to learn more? We do, too!
We asked our friends at the Arlington Public Library to develop a list of resources they have in their collection. These seven books are not meant to be a complete list, but they are great places to start your journey.
Knights for Adults: An Annotated List of APL Items for Further Exploration
The Knight
Call Number: 940.1088 B168k
An exploration of knighthood introduces readers to the truth behind the legend of these soldiers and takes a close-up look at the everyday lives of knights, their weaponry, tactics, and role in battle.
The Bright Ages: A New History of Medieval Europe
Call Number: 940.1 G118b
“Traveling easily through a thousand years of history the Bright Ages reminds us society never collapsed when the Roman Empire fell, nor did the modern world did wake civilization from a thousand year hibernation. Thoroughly enjoyable, thoughtful and accessible; a fresh look on an age full of light, color, and illumination.” —Mike Duncan
Knights: In History and Legend
Call Number: 940.1 K71
The most comprehensive book on knights and knighthood available. The word “knight” conjures up images of gallant men in gleaming armor astride noble steeds, searching for foes to fight and fair maidens to rescue.
In Knights the reality of knighthood is detailed, warts and all. This handsome reference tells the true story of these mounted warriors, who evolved from simple soldiers on horseback to defenders of the faith during the Crusades.
Castle
Call Number: J 728.81 M117c
The word itself conjures up mystery, romance, intrigue, and grandeur. What could be more perfect for an author/illustrator who has continually stripped away the mystique of architectural structures that have long fascinated modern man?
With typical zest and wry sense of humor punctuating his drawings, David Macaulay traces the step-by-step planning and construction of both castle and town.
A Knight and His Weapons
Call Number: 623.441 O11k
Take an engaging journey back in time, when battles were fought with swords, lances, maces, and an array of well-crafted devices that could be elegant and ornate, brutal and efficient, or both.
This accessible, lively, and informative book explores many facets of the medieval world of weaponry.
A Knight and His Armor
Call Number: 623.441 O11k
Oakeshott provides a detailed history of how armor developed, how and of what it was made, and how it was worn.
The archaic notion of the armored knight as clumsy and constrained has been shattered in recent years, and specialists now know that a well-made suit of armor allowed the knight protection as well as freedom of movement.
Life in a Medieval Castle
Call Number: 940.1 M114l
A look at the history of castles and how they were built; the people who lived in them; their involvement in local government, law enforcement, and war; and how their usage changed after the Middle Ages.
Knights for Youth: An Annotated List of APL Items for Further Exploration
Sir Ladybug (graphic novel)
Call Number: J FICTION Tabor
“Ladies and gentlebugs, presenting the duke of the dandelion patch, champion of truth and justice, the one, the only – Sir Ladybug! With his herald, Pell, and his trusty squire, Sterling, he never shies away from a quest, no matter how dangerous…”
Spooky Castles
Call Number: J 133.122 B732s
Are you ready for a spine-tingling adventure? Travel to some of Earth’s most haunted places! Explore each location’s history and learn about eerie sightings and experiences.
Magic Tree House (graphic novel): The Knight at Dawn
Call Number: J FICTION Osborne
Retells, in graphic novel form, the tale of eight-year-old Jack and his younger sister Annie, who are whisked back in the magic treehouse to the time of knights and castles.
The Very Last Castle
Call Number: PIC K+ Jonk
Ibb, curious about the lone castle in her town, forms a long-distant friendship with the guard and, despite warnings there is something fearful inside, accepts his invitation to enter.
Night Knight
Call Number: PIC B-PK Dave
Transform bedtime with this knightly adventure.
Good Night, Knight
Call Number: J READER Lewin
After a tantalizing dream about golden cookies, Knight and his horse embark on a quest for baked goods.
Castle
Call Number: J 728.81 M117c
Text and detailed drawings follow the planning and construction of a “typical” castle and adjoining town in thirteenth-century Wales.
(Cross-Sections) Castle
Call Number: J 940.1 P719c
Working from plans of an actual 14th century European castle, Stephen Biesty has sliced the building into various corss-sections, each one teeming with life and detail.
Across the Pond
Call Number: J FICTION McCullough
Moving to a Scottish castle allows seventh-grader Callie to escape friendship problems in San Diego, but finding new friends, even in the birding club an old journal inspires her to join, proves challenging.
What are Castles and Knights?
Call Number: J 929.71 F119w
Castles may conjure up a romantic fairy tale world; however, in real life, during the Middle Ages, castles were fortresses, providing shelter and protection for the lord as well as for the peasants who lived on his land. For an army, a lord depended on young soldiers in armor called knights who spent years at the castle learning the skills of warfare.
Max and the Midknights
Call Number: J FICTION Peirce
Max and a group of friends dubbed the Midknights go on a quest to rescue the Kingdom of Byjovia from the mean King Gastley!
Castles
Call Number: J 728.81 S814c
This children’s history book has everything you need to know about medieval castles, including knights, jousting, sieges, drawbridges, and forts. Learn about castle design, from the earliest motte and bailey styles to stone fortresses and beautiful castles in Japan and India.
