In a nutshell: historical adventures full of facts and fun
Not since Horrible Histories has the past been brought to life for young readers so accurately and with so much humour. Written in partnership with the National Trust in the form of the diary of a young boy, page to a knight at Widemoat Castle, the story recounts an exciting episode in his life culminating in an attack on the castle by the rebellious Welsh. Young John Drawbridge and Widemoat are fictional but everything else in the book is real and it’s full of interesting historical detail, giving a complete view of life in a medieval castle. You can always rely on Philip Ardagh to add humour and this rollicking story has some very good jokes as well as appealing characters. ~Andrea Reece
The Editor at Nosy Crow says: “This is the perfect book for Philip: it takes advantage of his incredible mix of talents as an author - hilarious writing, brilliant characters and voice, and lots of fascinating factual detail. Jamie’s brilliant artwork is the perfect complement - it’s lively, funny, full of rich detail and expression, and hugely child-friendly. A winning combination!”
National Trust: The Secret Diary of John Drawbridge, a Medieval Knight in Training Synopsis
John Drawbridge has moved to Widemoat Castle to learn to become a knight. And there is a LOT to learn. . . How to charge with a lance on horseback without falling off. Why the spiral staircases always go up in a clockwise direction. How to defend the castle against invading parties. Why the plates served at banquets are made of stale bread (and why you shouldn't eat them...). And much, MUCH more. So it's no wonder that John decides to keep a diary (even if it is only an imaginary one...) of his time at the castle. Things REALLY liven up when the castle is attacked by an invading Welsh party - but can John foil their plot before it's too late...?
Roald Dahl Funny Prize winning author Philip Ardagh is the author of The Grunts. He is probably best known for his Grubtown Tales, but he is author of over 100 books. He is a ‘regular irregular’ reviewer of children’s books for The Guardian, and is currently developing a series for television. Philip Ardagh is two metres tall with a ridiculously big, bushy beard and size sixteen feet, making him an instantly recognisable figure at literary festivals around the world. He lives in a seaside town in Kent with his wife and two cats.
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