Plot Summary

The Shining Company

Rosemary Sutcliff
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The Shining Company

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1990

Book Brief

Rosemary Sutcliff

The Shining Company

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Britain • 5th century

Publication Year

1990

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

1170L

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Super Short Summary

In The Shining Company by Rosemary Sutcliff, Prosper, second-born son of chieftain Gerontius, embarks with his servant Conn on a journey to join Prince Gorthyn's war band at Dyn Eidin. As they train for battle against the Saxons of Bernicia under King Mynyddog, Prosper and Conn face challenges, form strong bonds, and ultimately confront the realities of war and loyalty during the lead-up to the Battle of Catraeth in 600 CE. The book includes instances of violence and battle.

Adventurous

Mysterious

Melancholic

Inspirational

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,460 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Shining Company by Rosemary Sutcliff is lauded for its lyrical prose and historical fidelity, engaging readers with its vivid depiction of 6th-century Britain. Fans praise the character depth and intricate narrative, though some find the pacing slow and the abundance of historical detail overwhelming. Overall, it’s a richly detailed novel that appeals to historical fiction enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Shining Company?

Ideal for historical fiction enthusiasts, The Shining Company by Rosemary Sutcliff will captivate readers interested in Arthurian legends and early medieval Britain. Comparable to Bernard Cornwell's The Last Kingdom series, this book appeals to those who relish rich historical detail, epic battles, and coming-of-age narratives.

4.2

1,460 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Britain • 5th century

Publication Year

1990

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

1170L

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