Men of Iron
by Howard Pyle

Howard Pyle (1853-1911) was not so much an author who illustrated his own stories as an artist who wrote stories to go with his illustrations. These days one may have to browse second-hand bookshops, or shop online for used books, to get hold of many of his tales, though some of them are being reissued. Readers who crave adventure will especially love Pyle's accounts of Arthur and the Round Table, pirates, elves, fairies, and colonial America, including such titles as A Modern Aladdin, Twilight Land, and The Wonder Clock. And they will especially love Pyle's historical novel of the age of chivalry, Men of Iron.

The hero of this book is Myles Falworth, the son of a blind nobleman who has fallen into poverty and disgrace. Myles's father had gotten sideways to the king, even before a bitter enemy leveled an unjust accusation of treason at him. Now it is up to the boy - a strong, active, fiercely independent, courageous boy - to make things right.

Myles is an unambiguous hero, a paragon of virtue and honesty. Nevertheless, even today's jaded, postmodern reader can sympathize with him, because he isn't altogether perfect. Hot-headed, dogged, proud, and sometimes foolish, he makes his share of mistakes and suffers for them accordingly. But as he undergoes training as a squire and, later, a knight, we see him being shaped for a great destiny.

But first, he must restore the fortunes of his fallen house. And ultimately, that means he must face the man who blinded his father in a trial by combat from which only one of them - at most - will emerge alive.

I would even recommend this book for younger readers (particularly boys), but I must acknowledge two things. First, knightly combat is pretty violent, and I wouldn't want to give nightmares to very sensitive children. Second, the book is full of historic language and describes objects, concepts, and codes of conduct that may be new to a modern, young reader. The characters speak in an archaic lingo in which "thee" or "thou" means you, "an" means if, and words like "belike," "haply," and "withal" are generously sprinkled. This manner of speech is actually closer to today's English than to what was really spoken in the time of England's King Henry IV, as Pyle himself admits; but no one with less than a master's degree in medieval English literature could comfortably read the really authentic stuff. Pyle makes it easier for us; but still, a young reader unused to that style of speaking should be ready to invest concentration and willingness to learn.

It is worth it. For, even when Pyle's characters are not directly speaking, he has an unusual way with words that vividly brings to life a bygone age and its joys, beauties, and troubles. He crafts chapters that will make you hold your breath with suspense, and a final crisis that will make your heart stand still. Whatever effort you must invest is worth it if you care for such an adventure and such a spotless, appealing young hero.

Robbie Fischer
USA

Recommended Age: 12+

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