Its easy to read and a somewhat familiar story.

If you have shied away from verse novels, Song of the Sparrow would be a good place to start. Her rescuer is unexpected-and that's all I'll say, except there is a satisfying and romantic ending. Then, she is all at once in much grave danger. The trip turns out to be much harder than Elaine expects-she is woefully unprepared. Elaine decides to follow, by herself, this army, since she can help heal them if they are wounded. The excitement begins when Arthur decides to go on a five-day ride to meet and defeat the Saxons once an for all. When he returns to camp with Gwynivere, she is crushed because it is obvious that Lancelot is enchanted with Gwynivere, who is to be married to Arthur. Elaine is in love with Lancelot, but he looks at her as if she's a child. Tristan appears, and we are given a short summary of his story with Isolde.Įlaine's mother was killed when she was very young, so she has had a unique upbringing, not so much ladylike as 'tom boy,' given that her playmates have been from Arthur's round table. They are fighting with Arthur (soon to be king), Lancelot, Gawain, and many other familiar characters. They are constantly battling the Saxons, who are trying to invade Britain. It's unique and beautiful because it is told in verse.Įlaine, the Lady of Shalott, lived in an army encampment with her father and two brothers. Song of the Sparrowis a retelling of the story of the Lady of Shalott.

Song of the sparrow by lisa ann sandell