At the Crossing Places

Together Crossley-Holland and Maloney portray the Arthurian legend in a unique manner. The story is completely true to its medieval setting; however, it also offers today's young listeners a historical novel that can be fully enjoyed. The vocabulary is appropriate to its time, while Maloney's modern delivery adds to the overall pleasure. We follow young Arthur de Caldicott (King Arthur's namesake) as he prepares for the Fourth Crusade, learns his duties, and says farewell to those he loves. Intrigue is added as we observe his encounters with those who wish him ill. All of these components create an excellent listening experience for any medieval or Arthurian fan. S.G.B. Winner of 2004 ALA/ YALSA Recording (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine

October 1, 2002
Holy wars and romantic intrigue adventure combine in Kevin Crossley-Holland's At the Crossing Places, book two in the Arthur Trilogy begun with The Seeing Stone. Here 13-year-old Arthur begins life as squire to Lord Stephen at Holt and aspires to be a Crusader in his own right, and perhaps win the hand of a fair maiden.