1154 – 1485
The Plantagenet dynasty was marked by significant events and figures. Henry of Anjou, later Henry II, and his queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine (more here), were central to the dynasty’s power. Their sons included Richard the Lionheart (more here)and King John, who famously signed the Magna Carta in 1215, limiting royal power and laying the groundwork for modern democracy. The era also produced iconic literature such as Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and the enduring tales of Robin Hood, reflecting the vibrant culture and turbulent politics of the time.
Picture books
The Adventures of Robin Hood
Engaging, comic-book-style retelling of the Robin Hood stories
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Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales
Comic-book-style retelling of the Canterbury Tales, suitable for young readers
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Rupert’s Parchment: Story of Magna Carta
Story of the Magna Carta through the eyes of a young boy
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Magnus Carter: A Fable About Justice and Liberty
Lovely introduction to the Magna Carta, suitable for the youngest readers
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Chapter books
A Proud Taste for Scarlet and Miniver
Outstanding narrative introduction to Eleanor of Aquitaine
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If All the Swords in England: A Story of Thomas Becket
Novel of a young boy serving Thomas Becket
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Canterbury Tales
Excellent retelling of four of the Canterbury Tales for middle-grade readers
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The Adventures of Robin Hood (Puffin Classics)
Classic retelling of the Robin Hood stories for middle-grade readers
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A March on London
Adventure story set in Richard II’s early reign
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Non-fiction books
Biographies
Queen Eleanor: Independent Spirit of the Medieval World
Biography of Queen Eleanor for middle- to upper-grade readers
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Thomas Becket: English Saint and Martyr
Biography of Thomas Becket and his fight with Henry II
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History VIPs: King John
Accessible biography of King John and his times
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Eleanor of Aquitaine and the High Middle Ages
Queen Eleanor and her medieval context
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