Otto of the Silver Hand

by Howard Pyle

Overview

A rich and engrossing thread of Romance runs through this tale of the motherless son of a valiant robber baron of Medieval German. Young Otto, born into a warring household in an age when lawless chiefs were constantly fighting each other or despoiling the caravans of the merchant burghers, is raised in a monastery only to return to his family's domain and become painfully involved in the blood-feud between his father and the rival house of Truthz-Drachen.

The narrative is told with Howard Pyle's consummate skill and illustrated with some of the most enchanting sketches ever done for a book of this type. Like the same author's version of The Story of King Arthur and His Knights (Dover $25.0) and his collection of original stories known as The Wonder Clock (Dover, $3.00), this book has become a legend, a modern story with the feel and sound of ancient tale. It is a reading adventure that youngsters will not soon forget.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781607786474
Publisher:	MobileReference
Publication date:	01/01/2010
Series:	Mobi Classics
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	193 KB

About the Author

The stories and drawings of Howard Pyle (1853–1911) epitomize "the golden age of American illustration." A priceless contribution to American children's literature, Pyle's work set a standard of excellence, with tales and images remarkable for their engaging simplicity and penetrating realism.

Editorial Reviews

Gr 5-9-Although Howard Pyle's 1888 tale about medieval Germany may seem an unlikely choice for 21st century children, Otto of the Silver Hand has audience appeal for fans of the Arthurian legends. Born into a baronial family that is already engaged in a blood feud with another noble house, motherless Otto is sent to live with monks while still an infant. Reclaimed at age 12 by his militant, but loving father, the gentle-natured boy is kidnapped and mutilated by the rival family. Fortunately, Otto finds comfort with his captor's daughter, Pauline, who helps him escape. His father's courage and cunning allow the lad's safe return to the monks who place him under the emperor's protection. His silver hand is a replacement for the one Otto lost while in captivity, but his injury does not prevent him from maturing wisely and marrying Pauline. Geoffrey Howard's crisp diction and nuanced characterizations enhance this classic story which is more likely to be listened to than read. The recording opens with a brief, informative biography of Pyle, and uses his original artwork on the cover. The case is a durable plastic with useful information, and the cassettes are well-marked. While this is not a necessary purchase, it is a worthy addition to any audiobook collection seeking lesser-known classics in children's literature.-Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.

School Library Journal

Otto of the Silver Hand is marvelously read by [Ralph Cosham]…well worth the listen.”

Largeprintreviews.com

The story's unflinching portrayals of the unpleasant aspects of medieval life may shock some young readers, but its well-organized and exciting plot makes for entertaining reading.”

Beacham's Guide to Literature for Young Adults

An excellent addition to any study of the Middle Ages, or simply an enjoyable read.”

BookAngles.com