Yvain: The Knight of the Lion
In his first graphic novel, National Book Award winner M. T. Anderson turns to Arthurian lore, with captivating art by Andrea Offermann bringing the classic legend to life.
Illustrated by Andrea Offerman
Candlewick Press (2017)
ISBN: 9780763659394
Ages: 12 & Up
Awards
YALSA Great Graphic Novels for Teens ● Kirkus Reviews Best Books of the Year ● Junior Library Guild Selection
Eager for glory and heedless of others, Sir Yvain sets out from King Arthur’s court and heads into the enchanted forests of Brittany, unknowingly intertwining his future with the lives of two compelling women: Lady Laudine, the beautiful widow of a lord Yvain has killed, and her sly maid Lunette. In a stunning visual interpretation of a 12th century epic poem by Chrétien de Troyes, readers are — at first glance — transported into a classic Arthurian romance complete with errant knights, plundering giants, and fire-breathing dragons. A closer look, however, reveals a thrilling world rich with unspoken emotion. Striking, evocative art by Andrea Offermann sheds light upon the inner lives of medieval women and the consequences Yvain’s oblivious actions have upon Laudine and Lunette. Renowned author M. T. Anderson embraces a new form with a sophisticated graphic novel that challenges Yvain’s role as hero, delves into the honesty and anguish of love, and asks just how fundamentally the true self can really change.
Reviews
“A sharp critique of medieval social strictures, with stunning battles scenes, monsters, and blood.” — New York Times
“At turns elegant, startling, and ironic, this turbulent adventure makes a superb introduction to medieval ideas and storytelling for readers ages 12 and older.” —Wall Street Journal
★ “A compulsively readable and eminently enjoyable retelling that breathes new life into an old classic.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Anderson’s clever, nuanced recasting of Chrétien de Troyes’s Arthurian legend blends archaic courtliness with modern clarity … Offermann’s sequential artwork provides a thrilling, nonstop barrage of swordplay, gallantry, and magic.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Thoughtful, entertaining, and provocative …” — Booklist
“Offermann’s eye-catching illustrations combine modern styles with elements of medieval manuscripts, and emotional close-ups are often used to very dramatic effect. An intriguing selection that will be most appealing to fans of high fantasy and Arthurian stories.” — School Library Journal
“The writer and artist both effectively capture Laudine’s indignation, resignation, and ultimate fate...Anderson’s spare, matter-of-fact narration, set against Offerman’s muted earth tones, detailed small panels, sweeping spreads, and swirling, turbulent motifs, further ensures that readers’ hearts are as tormented as Laudine’s.” — Horn Book
Interviews
Mr. Schu Reads, “M.T. ANDERSON DISCUSSES YVAIN: THE KNIGHT OF THE LION” (February 27, 2017)