A KNIGHT'S BOOK

An old knight tells about some of his youthful experiences as Squire Wolflieb, accompanying his poor but admired Sir Frank to a tournament at a well-defended castle. Along the way to Frank's tie for the tournament victory, there are other adventures: rescuing the feisty Lady Lorin from a pack of wolves; routing a gang of bullies. The story ends on a darker note: the duchy must be defended against a real invasion. The illustrations are unusually lively and colorful, including—like the text—a great many authentic details of medieval life; in fact, though it's catalogued as fiction, the book's greatest strength is its informational value. An entertaining glimpse of another time. Translator's note on the amusing German names (e.g., ``Lîwenhaupt'' means Lion-Head). Handsome, oversize picture book format. (Fiction. 7-10)*justify no*