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Own as Audio CD read by Jim Weiss. I hope to change to the correct edition soon ...
We listened to Men of Iron on a long trip. We enjoyed the story; the exploits and doings of Myles Falworth were exciting. His maturation throughout the book was well done - from foolish boy to brave, wise knight. His foolish misunderstandings were brought on, at least partially, from the lack of information the adults in his life gave him. Yet, the revelations of friendship, enemy, and history all moved the plot along. Much of the story of Myles' training revolved around his character, both the good and the bad. He was a natural leader, yet sometimes his leadership caused more trouble than necessary.
Perhaps our children were a little young for this. In some ways, the story was nuanced and the language difficult for them. We did have to explain what was going on in several places. They all insisted, however, that they liked the story, and since we own it, can listen again in the future.
While we generally enjoy Jim Weiss and his CDs, this one seemed less professional than we've come to expect. There were places where obvious corrections were made that were distracting to the adult listener.
We listened to Men of Iron on a long trip. We enjoyed the story; the exploits and doings of Myles Falworth were exciting. His maturation throughout the book was well done - from foolish boy to brave, wise knight. His foolish misunderstandings were brought on, at least partially, from the lack of information the adults in his life gave him. Yet, the revelations of friendship, enemy, and history all moved the plot along. Much of the story of Myles' training revolved around his character, both the good and the bad. He was a natural leader, yet sometimes his leadership caused more trouble than necessary.
Perhaps our children were a little young for this. In some ways, the story was nuanced and the language difficult for them. We did have to explain what was going on in several places. They all insisted, however, that they liked the story, and since we own it, can listen again in the future.
While we generally enjoy Jim Weiss and his CDs, this one seemed less professional than we've come to expect. There were places where obvious corrections were made that were distracting to the adult listener.
Slow-going as a read-aloud, and in fact we didn’t finish the book together. (My 10yo and I each finished it independently.) As my boys slowly become young men, I appreciate more and more books that present impetuous boys becoming steady men. This book is a perfect example.
Book 14 of 2022: Men of Iron by Howard Pyle
Set in the 15th century, Men of Iron is a young adult "coming of age" story in which a young squire, Myles Falworth, seeks not only to become a knight but to eventually redeem his father's honor. The knighthood ceremony detail is as complete as a work of nonfiction. Accurate descriptions of equipment and training as a knight are detailed throughout the book.
“Then keep thy head cool and thine eye true. Set thy trust in God, and haply thou wilt come out of this bout honorably in spite of the rawness of thy youth.”
“for, I tell thee, the worst of our enemies and the worst of men believe themselves always to have right and justice upon their side, even when they most wish evil to others.”
I found the novel delightful, entertaining, and historically accurate, an enjoyable coming of age story.
Set in the 15th century, Men of Iron is a young adult "coming of age" story in which a young squire, Myles Falworth, seeks not only to become a knight but to eventually redeem his father's honor. The knighthood ceremony detail is as complete as a work of nonfiction. Accurate descriptions of equipment and training as a knight are detailed throughout the book.
“Then keep thy head cool and thine eye true. Set thy trust in God, and haply thou wilt come out of this bout honorably in spite of the rawness of thy youth.”
“for, I tell thee, the worst of our enemies and the worst of men believe themselves always to have right and justice upon their side, even when they most wish evil to others.”
I found the novel delightful, entertaining, and historically accurate, an enjoyable coming of age story.
I read this book as a boy and loved it. In reading it again, I realized just how much this book must have informed my sense of chivalry and desire to do right in the face of opposition. The moral lessons woven through the story are in plain sight to me now; that they are so readily apparent is charming to me, not at all annoying.
The story is engaging despite being rather straightforward, the language is fun, and I particularly enjoyed the contrast of the young hero's wholesome simplicity with the machinations of the politics around him, which he openly admits to be beyond his understanding.
The story is engaging despite being rather straightforward, the language is fun, and I particularly enjoyed the contrast of the young hero's wholesome simplicity with the machinations of the politics around him, which he openly admits to be beyond his understanding.
adventurous
medium-paced
I can understand why some people can’t handle this book due to the language being of Old English but I think that’s what makes this book all the more better. Pyle did a great job in telling a story as authentically as possible as how it is to become a knight in those days as well as dealing with social status all while telling a story of a young squire reaching knighthood to kill the man who ruined his fathers good name. Very well written and if Pyle’s other stories are up to par with this then he may be one of my favorite authors.
Entertaining and exciting novel set in the middle ages, of a boy's quest to become a knight and restore his father's honor and place among the nobility. Even more, its about the growth and development of a young boy to a man. One of my favorites when I was growing up. Another of my favorites from my youth.
adventurous
fast-paced
My favorite Howard Pyle novel. Just as excellent and relevant a coming-of-age story today as when it was written.