Plot Summary

Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur

Jane Yolen
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Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1988

Book Brief

Jane Yolen

Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Camelot • Medieval England

Publication Year

1988

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1010L

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Super Short Summary

In Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur by Jane Yolen, King Arthur struggles to gain his people's trust, leading his advisor Merlinnus to recreate the sword in the stone to affirm Arthur's legitimacy. Amidst political intrigue, the boy Gawen, secretly Morgause's son, arrives with hidden motives. Arthur’s rule is tested by the manipulations of Merlinnus and Morgause as the tale unfolds.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Adventurous

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.0

3,698 ratings

58%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jane Yolen’s Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur is praised for its fresh spin on Arthurian legends, rich character development, and engaging prose. However, some readers find the plot predictable and pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a compelling reimagining that appeals to both young and adult audiences despite minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur?

A reader who enjoys Sword of the Rightful King: A Novel of King Arthur by Jane Yolen likely appreciates historical fantasy retellings, particularly those of Arthurian legend. Fans of T. H. White's The Once and Future King and Marion Zimmer Bradley's The Mists of Avalon would find this novel appealing for its rich, imaginative narrative and nuanced character portrayals.

4.0

3,698 ratings

58%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Camelot • Medieval England

Publication Year

1988

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1010L

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