Customer Reviews

Wulf The Saxon: A Story of the Norman Conquest (Works of G. A. Henty)

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I received this book to read as a school assignment. After I read the first ten pages, I thought it was going to be pretty boring. I mean, how interesting is a book about getting in a quarrel about tripping over someone's feet. I wondered how Henty managed to write a book that goes on for 360 pages with really small print that kept going on like that. Then, I decided to read a little more. The second chapter wasn't quite as bad so I read a little more, until it got so interesting I didn't want to stop!

G. A. Henty wrote a scores of historical fiction stories about the Middle Ages and other time periods, including Ancient Civilizations, the Renaissance, and even journeys to the new world. At the turn of the century, he was a renowned author, especially among high-school boys. I am surprised that he has been almost completely forgotten today. Henty is a marvelous author who wrote exciting, historically accurate, action-adventure books.

Wulf is a Saxon thane who is under the command of Earl Harold of Wessex. He is always by Harold's side, ready for adventure with his right-hand man Osgod and his best friend Beorn. They fight the Welsh, the Bretons, Vikings, and finally the Normans under the command of the Duke of Normandy, a.k.a. William the Conqueror at the final conflict at Hastings.

If all Henty's books are like this one, I'm going to ask my parents to order the whole set! The only downside to investing your time in this book is the beginning is a little slow. But after that, It's Great! I can't wait to read the next one.

the straightforward manor and general tone of writing is a style I enjoy. it is an easy read, and the author was a master at bringing a section of history and a historical figure to life. after a wikipedia search on the historic figure the main characters revolve around I found many of the historic anecdotes and snippets of info historians argue over have been fleshed out well and good by the author.

Wulf the Saxon gives a wonderful glimpse into the life of the Saxon monks, thanes, lords and peasants in the early eleventh century, as well as into the homes of Norman lords. The story is interesting and well written, filled with historical characters and events. The only thing that slightly annoyed me is that Henty seemed to go out of his way to give Wulf opportunities to distinguish himself.

I particularly appreciated the pureness of Edith and Harold's relationship, and their honorable behavior when he had to marry Ealdgyth. I also really appreciated the respect Harold shows to all men, and how Duke William is portrayed as being no worse than most rulers of that time (though many of his actions are clearly shown as wrong) and as having a few admirable qualities. I highly recommend Wulf the Saxon to anyone older than thirteen who desires to learn more about the Norman Conquest or King Harold.

The book skips around between first and third person confusing the story. Kids have to be really interested in English history and have read everything else out there to put this book at a 5. Penman and Cornwell are as easy to read.

While Henty is a good read it is definitely a kids book. Do not expect much depth to the story. The story is quick, exciting, and predictable. Fun and accurate but not too involved. A good book if you know what to expect.

My son was given this book on tape as a gift. It ended up being a gift for the entire family. Henty writes very good and interesting historical fiction that has wide appeal. Although most of his books focus on young men in history, my daughter also found the story of Wulf very interesting and entertaining.

This is an excellent book as well as all of the other books by this author. Get them all.