The Magna Charta [Paperback]

James Daugherty (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1998

It was Ben Franklin who coined the phrase, "Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God," and if any historical drama fulfills that maxim, it is surely the saga of King John and the drafting of the Magna Charta. Out of the rich turbulence of English history, June 15, 1215 stands apart as a significant milestone in the progress of human liberty. On that day, a brave band of barons, led by the noble Stephen Langton, and calling themselves the Army of God, stood up to the wicked King John and demanded that he restore the ancient laws of England that he had so unabashedly trampled underfoot. The era is a rollicking one filled with colorful characters like Robin Hood and his Merry Men, Richard the Lionheart, Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, and many more. Newbery and Caldecott medal-winner James Daugherty brings his own passion for freedom's story to this wonderful saga of the thirteenth century. Daugherty devotes the last part of the book to a history of the "documents" of freedom—what he calls the "Children of the Magna Charta"—demonstrating how liberty has progressed over the ages. Two-color illustrations by the author enhance the drama of this text. 181pg

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Before James Daugherty (1889-1974) became a noted author, he was a well-established artist having illustrated more than forty books by other authors. In Mr. Daugherty's own books, the art and text combine gusto, exuberance, rich detail and a masculine style singing a song of America. When receiving the Newbery Award in 1940 for Daniel Boone, Daugherty summed up the spirit of his major lifework: "Wit and taste, beauty and joy are as much a necessary part of the democratic heritage as economics and the utilities...Children's books are a part of that art of joy and joy in art that is the certain inalienable right of a free people." Mr. Daugherty is primarily remembered for his inspired expression of the American spirit in both visual and literary form, a spirit characterized by appreciation for the heroes of democracy. In publishing three of his titles we have painstakingly preserved his two and three color drawings so that you may enjoy his books in their original context.

Product Details

• Paperback: 181 pages
• Publisher: Beautiful Feet Bks (March 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0964380358
• ISBN-13: 978-0964380356
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #278,597 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

27 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars King John and the Writing of the Magna Charta, May 6, 2008

By 

L. Michalek "zard92" (Rochester, NY) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Magna Charta (Paperback)

My 13 year old and I have read "The Magna Charta" together and both learned an enormous amount of information concerning not only the Magna Charta but the history surrounding this document and the rulers who opposed or were forced into the signing of this Charta.

This book is written for the Middle School level and my son needed some help with pronunciation, definitions and discussion as we read. Many new concepts were introduced including how Kings ruled their lands during the Medieval time period, relationships between the Pope and King, the transfer of lands and dictatorship, relationships and fighting between rulers of different lands, the development of laws to protect the Kings people, and the progression and refinement of Charters which lead to the Magna Charta.

Although the focus of this book is primarily on King John's life and his influence on the Magna Charta, this book is highly recommended for middle schoolers who would also like to learn about past rulers including King Henry, King Richard, King John, Stephen Langton, and other interesting subjects such as the Crusades, The Sheriff of Nottingham, Castles, Runnymede, the Siege of Rochester, the Pope, Hubert de Burgh, the Treaty of Lambeth, and very early American History related to the Magna Charta.

26 of 30 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting reading and very informative, October 23, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: The Magna Charta (Paperback)

My daughter, husband and I all three found this to be a wonderful book. The story was told in a fashion that held the interest of all of us! Learned much from reading this and my 11 year old said she very much liked reading this book.
Essential and interesting way to tie together the Magna Charta to U.S. history.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great fun for all ages!, November 8, 2007

By 

Maria Oliveira - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Magna Charta (Paperback)

This is such a great way to learn about The Magna Carta and the very interesting character of King John, as well as the other prominent people involved in this landmark historic event. Daugherty's writing style is very entertaining with its large dose of humor & light sarcasm. I am looking forward to reading more of his books with great expectations. The best way to learn history is through wonderful storytelling just like this. Both I and my 12 year old son loved it. Recommended highly!!