This Carnegie Medal-winning classic tale tells the story of Philip d'Aubigny, the knight crusader. From his first battle against the mighty Saladin's army to a victorious crusade alongside Richard the Lionheart ... it's a dangerous and thrilling life and one that is brought vividly to life through Ronald Welch's dramatic writing.
Philip d'Aubigny is a young knight in the kingdom of Outremer and can't wait to prove himself. His chance comes when he rides into battle to defend his home from attack by Saracen leader, Saladin and his army. But after a disastrous campaign, Philip is taken prisoner by the Turks and must work as a servant-and all the while he is plotting his escape. At last his opportunity arrives and Philip flees, joining Richard the Lionheart in his victorious Third Crusadebefore finally travelling to Britain to claim his family's estate. Only when he arrives, he finds he must once again go into battle . . . This exciting tale has captured the hearts and imaginations of young readers for many years and was the winner of the prestigious Carnegie Medal. This edition featuresthe original black and white illustrations throughout which perfectly evoke the atmosphere of the story.
Ronald Welch (Ronald Oliver Felton) was born in Glamorgan and for much of his life was a teacher of history, and Headmaster of Okehampton Grammar School. He fought in the Welsh regiment during World War II. He published a number of historical novels for children, including Knight Crusader in 1954, for which he won the Carnegie Medal.
"Ronald Welch took one aspect of the past, military history, and made it his own. No other historical novelist for children is as good on battles as he is. His books are extremely well-researched, full of authentic detail, and always excitingly plotted."
