Historical fiction novel aimed at teenagers.
It is the story of a young servant girl's adventures with the Bard who finds her in the woods after her village has been destroyed by Arthur and his followers. They follow Arthur on his exploits, while she observes the Bard who romanticizes Arthur's bloody conquests to make him sound like a heroic young king.
Intersting way of commenting on today's political "spin" society - even through young persons' literature. It leaves a strong message in the reader's mind, even young readers. Touches on the strength of fear and hysteria created by storytelling in public perception. Not true to history in any way, but thought provoking nonetheless.
For my own work:
Like the ide of using a historical setting but not being bound to the facts.
Commenting on society can be appreciated by a teenage audience, so like to make it thought provoking.
The play on words for the title: Here lies Arthur gives an interesting hindsight to the work.
Swift Pure Cry by Siobhan Dowd
A heartbreaking story of a fifteen year old girl, Shell, whose mother died. She is left to look after her siblings as her father becomes an alcoholic, pretending to be a pillar of society, yet stealing from the church collection. She is outcasted by school and church. Falls pregnant after being taken advantage of by an older boy, who also sleeps with her best friend who soon runs away. Written in a lyrical irish prose. Addresses family and social issues. It is very sad, and shocking at times.
For my own work:
Shows teenagers can read about religion, death and sex as long as it is approached well. Therefore i can push the boundaries.
It can also serve as a warning to readers to learn from the protagonaists' troubles and mistakes. eg teen pregnancy and peer pressure.
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