How Castles Were Built

Children's Literature - Trina Heidt

Though many castles are in a state of disrepair, they still offer a world of fascination and enchantment. In this title of "The Age of Castles" series, Peter Hicks defines the castle and its function in the medieval world. He also describes the characteristics of the different types of castles and how the design evolved. Stunning photographs of existing castles are used to illustrate specific examples of architecture. Illustrations and inserts are also used to include additional pieces of information about life in the heyday of castle construction. To gain additional facts, a glossary, timeline, index and bibliography are included. If you have ever wondered how some of the most beautiful and enduring structures in the world were built then this is a very satisfying place to start.

School Library Journal

Gr 6-8--A look at the methods and purposes of castle design and building. Beginning with a definition of what constitutes a castle, the book presents the different types in chronological order, noting factors that led to the development of variations. The book ends with a brief overview of these structures around the world and a discussion of the fate of most medieval castles. Because of its focus, this title goes into more detail than Christopher Gravett's Castle (Knopf, 1994). The presentation is factual, but there are occasionally lapses into fictionalizing. The clear illustrations include a variety of watercolor paintings, full-color photographs, reproductions of period paintings, and simple drawings that directly support the text. A "Build Your Own Castle" project is flawed by disjointed, incomplete directions spread across seven pages. A list of further resources includes books, CD-ROMs, and Internet sites. Overall, though, this title is pictorial, fact filled, and well organized.--Megan McGuire, Lake View Elementary School, Madison, WI