AR: 6.2

Am I allowed to find this book really boring? I ought to like it, but just could not read in with interest. Instead I skipped through to get the main ideas. I think it was just so slow paced after reading a whole bunch of rousing adventures. ( )

I can't imagine myself recommending this book to a modern tween. It's full of old-timey language, it's overtly message-y, and where it aims to be an adventure it's pretty tame and predictable.

That said, I think it won the Newberry because the hero is a rich little boy who learns the value of hard work and bravery when a series of unfortunate events leaves him crippled and far from his parents' protection. I was sort of cheering for him in the end, but mostly I just wanted to finish the book and move on to something better. ( )

The kids and I read this very slowly over several months as part of one of our homeschool co-ops group read-alouds. Yes, I'll admit it, I cried at the end and the kids all laughed at me! BUT---I did see one of my boys wiping away some tears too!

Written in 1949, this sweet story tells the tale of Robin, son of nobleman Sir John de Bureford. From Amazon: "Ever since he can remember, has been told what is expected of him as the son of a nobleman. He must learn the ways of knighthood. But Robin's destiny is changed in one stroke: He falls ill and loses the use of his legs. Fearing a plague, his servants abandon him and Robin is left alone. A monk named Brother Luke rescues Robin and takes him to the hospice of St. Mark's where he is taught woodcarving and--much harder--patience and strength. Says Brother Luke, 'Thou hast only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it.'"

We had several great discussions about this book---mainly what "the door in the wall" really means. We decided it referred to an opportunity---the chance to change one's course, simply by walking through an available door.

Some of the kids are already asking to reread it, so I'm thinking a second copy is in order. I know our family will cherish this story for years to come! ( )

I was sure I had read this as a child but I have no memory of it at all. A bit heavy handed but perfectly serviceable children's book with small adventures and a good dose of "how to be a better person".