Excalibur by Tony Lee-ADVISABLE

Lee, Tony, Excalibur: The Legend of King Arthur. Candlewick Press, 2011. GRAPHIC NOVEL.

Raised in secret in a farm village, Arthur Pendragon grows up knowing that he is destined to defeat Ulric, the man who killed his father. After pulling the legendary sword from the stone that is destined to slay the man, Arthur is challenged by Ulric to a duel to the death. Entering the world of fae, Arthur is instructed on the art of being a king, fighting, and many other things that will be necessary for him to fulfill the prophecy. In return, when he has fulfilled his prophecy, he will return to the faerie to help them. When he returns and defeats Ulric, he is able to become king, but at a great price. Years ago, Morgan la Fey, Arthur’s half-sister, was given to the Unseelie Court in his place and still holds a grudge against him. Will the prophecy Merlin made about Arthur “dying for the people” come true or will Arthur be able to figure out the truth before it’s too late?

The illustrations are well-done. The story is true to the original tale. The text is easy to follow. Readers who like graphic novels, classics, fantasy, and adventure will enjoy reading this book. EL (4-6), MS. ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library.