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Hello, my fellow literature enthusiasts! To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the beloved film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, I’ve curated a list of five remarkable books that delve into the legend of King Arthur. My personal journey through Arthurian literature began with The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart, which I first encountered at the tender age of eight. That edition, worn and without its jacket, left an indelible mark on my heart, sparking a year filled with all books in the series.
While my deep affection for the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail has certainly shaped my understanding of Arthurian tales, it’s essential to note that these literary explorations are more diverse than the comedic angles presented in the film. In the following selections, you won’t come across humorous elements like coconuts or bloodthirsty rabbits, but what you will find are captivating narratives that expand upon this legendary saga.
The Winter Knight by Jes Battis
In a twist on Arthurian legends, this enticing queer urban fantasy unfolds when a knight is found dead in Vancouver. The story follows an investigator who narrows the suspects down to two intriguing characters: Wayne, an autistic college student believed to be the reincarnation of Sir Gawain, and his romantic interest, a professor. As Wayne grapples with his heritage, dark forces emerge, complicating their lives.
Legendborn (The Legendborn Cycle, #1) by Tracy Deonn
This first installment of a highly acclaimed YA trilogy introduces us to Bree Matthews, a sixteen-year-old attending a gifted program at UNC–Chapel Hill. After an unsettling magical incident during her first night, Bree discovers latent powers within herself. These abilities connect her to a group descended from King Arthur, who are on a quest to thwart a magical war—a quest intertwined with the mystery of her mother’s untimely death.
Sword Stone Table: Old Legends, New Voices, edited by Swapna Krishna and Jenn Northington
This striking anthology offers a kaleidoscope of Arthurian stories, featuring diverse perspectives and modern interpretations. It includes contributions from a range of talented authors, each providing a unique take on the legendary tales. The collection celebrates inclusivity, offering narratives that reflect a multitude of identities and experiences.
Spear by Nicola Griffith
Celebrated with numerous awards, this intriguing narrative explores a queer retelling of the Camelot mythos. The story revolves around a young warrior’s journey as she embarks on an adventure alongside King Artos of Caer Leon. With a stolen spear in hand, she battles formidable foes and navigates her growing fame while discovering her own heart’s desires.
The Other Merlin (Emry Merlin, #1) by Robyn Schneider
This young adult novel brings a fresh perspective by focusing on Emry Merlin, who disguises herself as her twin brother to gain entry into Camelot. There, she navigates the complexities of court life while facing her own limitations in a male-dominated environment. As she grapples with her growing feelings for Prince Arthur, Emry must choose between her desire for magic and her burgeoning love.
Armed with new insights from these riveting narratives, I encourage you to explore these retellings and expansions of Arthurian lore. Each author offers a unique voice, enriching the tapestry of a story that has captured imaginations for centuries. For those eager to dive deeper into the world of books, you can join me regularly on the Book Riot podcast All the Books! for more literary discussions and recommendations.
Source
bookriot.com