Shortlisted for the prestigious Branford Boase Award 2011.
A thrilling first part of a two book sequence from an outstanding adult writer new to children's books. Step into a journey through a land ruled by robber barons, though they
call themselves lords and kings - towards a destiny - or choice - at
first dimly perceived, growing stronger and more terrifying as the
journey nears its climax.
Titles shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award 2011:
When his woodcutter guardian is viciously murdered and his home burned to the ground, Tog is running for his life. It's freezing, he's lost everything, there's a man with a knife on his tail, and all he has to survive are his wits, his fighting skills, taught to him by woodcutter guardian but never before tested, the motley travelling companions he gathers on the way, and a garbled message - the woodcutter's last, gasped words - STONE, ORCHARD, MOON. Are they clues or are they ravings of a fading mind?
'A modern fairy story ... Buxton is possibly the best of the new supernatural writers.' Phil Rickman
'More than just a historical novel ... It succeeds in being a novel set in the past. This is achieved by Buxton's confident control over the many subtle strokes which make up his layered narrative, and by his adroit handling of the story.' Times Literary Supplement
'One of the best new riffs on Arthurian legend... the grittiest as well as one of the most exciting new renditions of the myth.' Amanda Craig, The Times
'Wholly compelling and very funny.' The Times
'The story of King Arthur is ingeniously reworked in JP Buxton's I am the Blade... This stirring account stops before the disintegration of the Round Table: its sequel next year should be well worth waiting for.' Independent on Sunday
'I Am The Blade is a thrilling adventure that captures your attention and won't let go.' Write Away
'With intelligent prose, interesting references, high adventure and a love story, this should prove to be a popular and rewarding read.' School Librarian
Author
About J.P. Buxton
J.P. Buxton has taught English in an eccentric boarding school in Massachusetts, sold suitcases in Manhattan and worked for years as a copywriter in the United Kingdom. With four successful previous novels for adults under his belt, I Am The Blade is his first book for teenagers and draws on his passion for ancient history, landscape, and adventure stories.
