King Alfred and the Ice Coffin

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Author(s)

Kevin Crossley-Holland

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Chris Riddell

Publisher

Candlewick Studio

Genre(s)

Age Range

10+

Release Date

November 12, 2024

ISBN

978-1536238808

Buy This Book

The illustrious creators of Arthur, the Always King return with a tale within a tale, focused on a heroic West Saxon king who championed the power of storytelling.

When Wulfstan, an intrepid ninth-century sailor, arrives at King Alfred’s court, he soon enchants the king with his riveting tale of stormy seas, thrilling races on horseback, and a ruler encased in ice. In this extraordinary collaboration, the award-winning Kevin Crossley-Holland and former British Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell reunite to bring Wulfstan’s tale, and the world of King Alfred the Great, to life. Told in lyrical prose and richly illustrated, this story of a West Saxon king known for fighting off the Vikings will captivate readers of all ages. An author’s note details King Alfred’s wish to enable his people to read books in their own language, learning Latin himself so he could translate the written works into English and incorporate tales of northern lands, such as the one retold here, that were recounted to him by travelers.

Editor review

1 review

Classic English Lore - Historical and slightly Mystic

November 17, 2024 (Updated: November 17, 2024)

Overall rating

4.0

Plot

4.0

Characters

3.0

Writing Style

4.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

A piece of old Saxon lore made accessible for kids. Drawing on historic accounts, this book recounts a story of King Alfred, a monarch who valued storytelling and literacy, and encourages a sailor to recount his travels to all who are gathered for that evening's feast. Before a rapt audience, the sailor spins a tale of ships and horses, far away lands and strange customs that enthrall royal and common listeners alike. The illustrations also create an unspoken story, adding emotional moments of companionship or thrill to the somewhat factual telling.

This is a beautiful book. The style of the cover artwork reappears on the naked hardcover, pages with text, and full illustration spreads. All printed on thick, quality paper (although this does make it heavier to hold). The large-size narrative text makes for an easier read, even with the archaic language. However, everything is also italicized, which I found a little distracting.

Pick this up for a glimpse of historic life and lore, and the powerful role of oral storytelling.