One of my favorite books growing up was G.A. Henty’s Beric the Briton. Henty was really my first introduction to historical fiction, and I’ve never been the same since. His stories had that spark of adventure, that peril and action, and that virtuous courage which every boy should admire and practice. And as I reread it recently, I knew I didn’t want this classic story to be lost.
Beric the Briton is the story of the fall of a nation and the rise of a Faith.
So when the Romans attack the Briton tribes, slay their chief, and scourge their queen, the Britons are moved to action. With his unique knowledge of the enemy, Beric leads his band of Britons in an insurgency against the Romans. The military prowess and self-discipline of the Roman legions is pitched against the wild and heroic charges of the Britons. Though Beric knows how to defeat the Romans, he is young, and the older chiefs ignore his wisdom, sealing their own defeat.
Beric and his men escape the slaughter, attempting to survive in the swampy regions. But their sanctuary doesn’t last long. Recaptured by the Romans, and trained as a gladiator, Beric must risk his life to save his beloved friend, and to defend a newfound faith.
Highly recommend this historical adventure for 10- 14 year old’s. Though the story is set at a time of war, Henty excludes gore and bloodshed. When he writes the romantic pieces of the story, he does so without tasteless immorality. The level of detail to history will be sure to fascinate the young homeschooler, as it educates and entertains.
Though his style differs from most historical novelists today, Henty was still a master of his craft. He underwent extensive research for all his books, traveling to the actual locations where the events took place, and relying heavily on the original documents written by people who experienced them. The level of detail he put into research, and his vision to bring history to life, definitely comes out on the page.
Originally published in 1893, this wonderful historical adventure is now available through Little Red Publishing House. This brand new edition has been fully reformatted with modern typeface, and includes the original illustrations, word definitions to aid the modern reader, and an exclusive introduction written by historian Bill Potter.
