The Little Duke: Richard the Fearless

"The Little Duke: Richard the Fearless" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a historical fiction novel that transports readers to 943, where young Prince Richard of Normandy, a spirited boy with impressive ideas, finds his life forever changed by the dangerous world of royal power and tragedy; at the start of the the book, we join Richard, an eight-year-old dreaming of brave knights and noble deeds, excitedly awaiting his father's return to the lively Castle of Bayeux. The author creates a vibrant scene of Norman life, showing the castle's hustle as they prepare for the Duke's grand supper. But the story soon changes course when devastating news arrives: Duke William has died unexpectedly. Richard, now the Duke, must face the difficult responsibilities of being a leader while still just a child, and he soon encounters treacherous people, including the King of France, threatening loyalty and revenge.