Son of Charlemagne

• 183 pages
• Historical fiction

Written from the perspective of Carl, Charlemagne’s second son, the reader journeys through the military, familial, and spiritual life of Charles the Great, King of the Franks. Carl experiences the consequences of seemingly cruel decisions made in hopes that the greater good of Charlemagne’s earthly as well as heavenly kingdom will be served. His father is, at once, a loving father and husband as well as a murderer and one who would deprive the inheritance of his eldest son because of his hunchback. As Charlemagne seeks to rebuild the Roman Empire in the West, his family often pays dearly.

This is a well-written book that gives a very good birds’ eye view of the life of Charlemagne. In some ways show more it is generous to Charlemagne’s character, but it does not sugar-coat his merciless killing of 4500 Saxons. This is more suited for middle school, but a strong reader who loves history and can handle the hard scenes of war will enjoy this book. show less

The year is 781 A.D. King Charles of the Franks is crossing the Alps with his family and court on a journey to meet with Pope Hadrian. One frosty night he speaks to his young son Carl of his plans for the future. "When we come to Rome you will know that I am naming you my heir. One day you will rule over all my lands...." But the King already had an heir, Pepin the Hunchback, mockingly called Gobbo. Was he to be dispossessed? Yet Carl sees that Charlemagne is determined to do what he feels is best to serve God and Europe. "Save me, O Lord from my own arrogance!" was a prayer the King spoke often. "But strengthen me in arrogance for Thy sake!" The story of the great Emperor Charlemagne and his son Carl will stir the minds and show more imaginations of young people, while they discover the grand dimensions of western Europe's foundation. show less

AR: 5+?