cover image Fernando el Temerario

Fernando el Temerario

Jose Luis Velasco. Combel Ediciones Editorial Esin, S.A., $9.95 (160pp) ISBN 978-84-8343-032-3

Grade 6-9-In 12th-century Spain, nine-year old Fernando desperately follows his father into a battle against the Moors, and reaches him just in time to hold him during his final moments. One of King Alfonso VIII's knights witnesses the tragedy and decides to take the boy under his wing. As a result, rather than being left to wander the countryside alone, Fernando rapidly becomes one of the most important pages in the King's court. After a cold welcome by some of the castle's servants, he is provided with fine clothes, food, a comfortable room, and a tutor. He participates in a number of activities in support of the King, and even travels to Rome to meet with the Pope. Fernando also sets his eyes on In\xE9s, a noble girl, but when he returns from his travels he finds that she has been betrothed to don Nu\xF1o de Trevi\xF1o, a wicked old man who had once plotted against the King. Fernando is not surprised; after all, how could he, a poor peasant boy, expect to marry a noble? A fascinating tale of hope, frustration, adventure, and young love, this beautifully constructed novel is filled with vivid descriptions written in the old Spanish style. Strongly recommended for all bookstores and library collections. Reviewed by Paul M. Kienlen, Walzem Elementary School, San Antonio, TX Cr\xEDticas, 10/15/08