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The Hawk of the Castle: A Story of Medieval Falconry
Gentle verse and sweeping, majestic artwork set imaginations soaring in a handsome and illuminating ode to the ancient art of falconry.
Join a young girl and her father, the falconer at a medieval castle, as they experience the joys of taking a goshawk out for a training flight. The girl leads readers through all the preparations and equipment needed for the flight from the hawk s hood and bells to the falconer s gloves culminating in a dramatic demonstration of the hawk s hunting skill. Bagram Ibatoulline s masterful illustrations capture the vivid details and beauty of a day spent hawking, while Danna Smith s poetic storytelling will make readers long to experience the art and sport of falconry firsthand."
Join a young girl and her father, the falconer at a medieval castle, as they experience the joys of taking a goshawk out for a training flight. The girl leads readers through all the preparations and equipment needed for the flight from the hawk s hood and bells to the falconer s gloves culminating in a dramatic demonstration of the hawk s hunting skill. Bagram Ibatoulline s masterful illustrations capture the vivid details and beauty of a day spent hawking, while Danna Smith s poetic storytelling will make readers long to experience the art and sport of falconry firsthand."
40 pages, Hardcover
First published April 11, 2017
2 people are currently reading
660 people want to read
About the author
Danna Smith
29 books63 followersWhen Danna was a child, her favorite “toy” was a pencil. Today, she is a poet and award-winning author of over twenty-five books for children. Danna lives in northern California with her husband, children, and grandchildren. For more information about her books and teaching activities, visit her website at www.dannadmithbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
February 18, 2019
While the presented poetry of Danna Smith's The Hawk of the Castle is lyrical and indeed, almost song-like, melodiously lovely to read and savour (with the additional prose information on each page an added and very much enlightening, appreciated intellectual informational bonus), I for one have not really been able to enjoy my reading experience of The Hawk of the Castle all that much, simply because there is not ANY even remote criticism of falconry as a sport featured (for let's face it, falconry basically uses birds for hunting, but unlike with most domestic dogs, these falcons and hawks are NOT ever really free of their constraints, but are constantly tethered or chained and thus, they are of course always basically at the beck and call of their human owners, and not able to escape or in any way hide themselves either).
And although I have actually and in fact very much enjoyed reading and learning about mediaeval falconry as a subject, as an entity, as a part of the historical culture of the Middle Ages, I guess that I did kind of expect to have seen at least some even minor critical musings by Danna Smith with regard to the sport of falconry, if not within the pages of The Hawk of the Castle, if not within the verses of the little girl's description of her father and her taking the castle's goshawk out for a flight and a hunt, then at least within the additional prose descriptions on each page, on each spread (however, that has absolutely and in fact not occurred, and while I can, after reading the author's note and realising that Danna Smith's father was in fact a falconer sort of understand that she would of course likely be supportive of falconry, I for one and personally find the entire concept of the latter at best more than a bit problematic, and especially that it is still seemingly practiced by many and seen as a positive and bird-friendly sport).
And therefore, while I have most definitely appreciated the knowledge obtained on an intellectual and academic level (and that Danna Smith has also included a list of books for further reading and study) and do find Bagram Ibatoulline's accompanying illustrations (and as usual) gloriously lush, descriptive and minutely detailed (but without ever feeling visually overwrought and too busy), I can and will only consider a high two star star ranking for The Hawk of the Castle, as I out of principle, do not agree with falconry in and of itself and really had thus both wanted and expected at least some form of condemnation thereof.
And although I have actually and in fact very much enjoyed reading and learning about mediaeval falconry as a subject, as an entity, as a part of the historical culture of the Middle Ages, I guess that I did kind of expect to have seen at least some even minor critical musings by Danna Smith with regard to the sport of falconry, if not within the pages of The Hawk of the Castle, if not within the verses of the little girl's description of her father and her taking the castle's goshawk out for a flight and a hunt, then at least within the additional prose descriptions on each page, on each spread (however, that has absolutely and in fact not occurred, and while I can, after reading the author's note and realising that Danna Smith's father was in fact a falconer sort of understand that she would of course likely be supportive of falconry, I for one and personally find the entire concept of the latter at best more than a bit problematic, and especially that it is still seemingly practiced by many and seen as a positive and bird-friendly sport).
And therefore, while I have most definitely appreciated the knowledge obtained on an intellectual and academic level (and that Danna Smith has also included a list of books for further reading and study) and do find Bagram Ibatoulline's accompanying illustrations (and as usual) gloriously lush, descriptive and minutely detailed (but without ever feeling visually overwrought and too busy), I can and will only consider a high two star star ranking for The Hawk of the Castle, as I out of principle, do not agree with falconry in and of itself and really had thus both wanted and expected at least some form of condemnation thereof.
February 17, 2018
A look at European medieval falconry through a rhyming text relayed by the falconer's daughter. Information boxes and Bagram Ibatoulline's gorgeous illustrations. Great picture book companion for children in your life if you were taken (as I was) by H is for Hawk. Children's picture book - all ages.
June 29, 2018
With a lovely lyrical narrative and gorgeously detailed illustrations created using acrylic gouache, this is an entertaining and informative book about the ancient art of falconry.
Those who are opposed to hunting may want to pass this one by, but having held a hunting falcon on my arm and later watched his aerial prowess, I am in awe of these majestic raptors.
The scenes appear to be from a European castle in the Middle Ages, but as the author explains in her note at the end of the book, falconry has been popular around the world for centuries.
I love that the short, rhyming narrative can be read separately for younger children and the blocks of additional information on each page will appeal to those who are older.
I also enjoyed the biographical and historical information given in the author's note, along with the additional resources for further study and the index.
Overall, it is a well-written and engaging book and I really enjoyed reading it.
Those who are opposed to hunting may want to pass this one by, but having held a hunting falcon on my arm and later watched his aerial prowess, I am in awe of these majestic raptors.
The scenes appear to be from a European castle in the Middle Ages, but as the author explains in her note at the end of the book, falconry has been popular around the world for centuries.
I love that the short, rhyming narrative can be read separately for younger children and the blocks of additional information on each page will appeal to those who are older.
I also enjoyed the biographical and historical information given in the author's note, along with the additional resources for further study and the index.
Overall, it is a well-written and engaging book and I really enjoyed reading it.
October 19, 2017
Wowwwwwww. I checked this out because I was looking for books to use for a homeschool program at work. The art is beautiful - stellar, even. The main text tells of the daily tasks of a medieval falconer and his daughter, and then there is much more detailed information inset into panels on each page. Also, The author's father was a falconer, so she knew this trade firsthand.
Just a lovely, lovely book.
Just a lovely, lovely book.
July 5, 2021
4.5 STARS This is a beautifully written and illustrated book. I read it as a historical account and, in that way, I found it quite satisfying and educational. The artwork is exceptional and I felt completely immersed in the falconer's life in medieval times. The text itself is lovely and informative, but accessible enough for younger elementary readers, while the Author's Note includes further information. (I was fascinated to learn that a person's rank in society dictated what species of bird he or she may use for falconry. The most prestigious raptors were eagle and vultures, which would be owned only by an emperor. Owning a bird above your rank was seen by society as an act of rebellion!)
I realize that many have raised concerns in present day regarding whether falconry is humane. The Author's Note does bring falconry to the present and presents it in a positive light based on her experiences working with her falconer father and her belief that falconers help protect birds of prey and a good falconer will always treat his/her bird with care and respect. So, depending upon your personal beliefs, you may wish not to share that part with your children or you may wish to share some opposing viewpoints (I know that PETA, for example, is no fan of the practice). It is easy to find compelling arguments for and against the practice in a quick search online. I read this myself purely as a glimpse into history (was not expecting anything about present-day falconry) thus my high rating is because I feel the author and illustrator did an excellent job with the historical story proper (it probably would have been more fair in the author's note to mention that not everyone in modern times is a fan of falconry, though). There's also a "For Further Reading and Information" section at the back, and an Index.
I realize that many have raised concerns in present day regarding whether falconry is humane. The Author's Note does bring falconry to the present and presents it in a positive light based on her experiences working with her falconer father and her belief that falconers help protect birds of prey and a good falconer will always treat his/her bird with care and respect. So, depending upon your personal beliefs, you may wish not to share that part with your children or you may wish to share some opposing viewpoints (I know that PETA, for example, is no fan of the practice). It is easy to find compelling arguments for and against the practice in a quick search online. I read this myself purely as a glimpse into history (was not expecting anything about present-day falconry) thus my high rating is because I feel the author and illustrator did an excellent job with the historical story proper (it probably would have been more fair in the author's note to mention that not everyone in modern times is a fan of falconry, though). There's also a "For Further Reading and Information" section at the back, and an Index.
August 22, 2017
If you need a great rhyming story about life in a medieval castle, this book is a treasure! The illustrations are fabulously breathtaking and detailed and framed in in an appropriately patterned border. The fact boxes on many pages give more detailed information about the information in the rhyme on that page. This book pulls off a feeling of being regal, which fits the time of castles and kings well, I think. This is a picture book that could be enjoyed by many ages of children, but the afterword and the further information appears geared toward upper elementary students. Since Castles and Knights and even Dragons have been themes for March is Reading Month and Summer Reading in my years as an elementary librarian, I know my students will welcome this book to our collection! I am not sure I would put this in the first purchase category, but if you have a need or an audience for a beautiful rhyming picture book set in Medieval Times, check this one out.
August 27, 2019
I thought this was a really neat book! I think the rhyming style / 4-verse per layout made the book perfect for the younger and older kids. I read this to my kindergartener son and my fifth grade son. The author also adds more factual information for your older students in a little corner of the book. And the illustrations are GORGEOUS and just pull you in!!
First of all, I never knew falconry existed, and I love learning interesting facts like this along side my children. With that being said, I found this fascinating! We aren’t even studying medieval history this year — but it would be perfect for that. But really, this book is great any time! You get to sneak in learning with this interesting and fun book! I also enjoyed reading the authors note in the back of the book!
First of all, I never knew falconry existed, and I love learning interesting facts like this along side my children. With that being said, I found this fascinating! We aren’t even studying medieval history this year — but it would be perfect for that. But really, this book is great any time! You get to sneak in learning with this interesting and fun book! I also enjoyed reading the authors note in the back of the book!
March 6, 2018
Breathtaking images and beautiful text written poetically enhancing the majestic experience of falconry. Historic depictions are accurate and specific information is provided on every page. A gorgeous book to explore the mysterious medieval period.
Especially interesting after just having watched "The Eagle Huntress."
Especially interesting after just having watched "The Eagle Huntress."
May 27, 2021
With poetic language and stunning illustrations, this fascinating picture book makes you feel as if you right inside a medieval castel and following alongside young girl and her falconer father - preparing, training, and hunting. Fascinating backmatter from the author tells of her own experience as a falconer's daughter.
September 28, 2021
Enjoyable verse to read aloud. All ages of my kids enjoyed it. Informative about the sport of Falconry. Beautiful illustrations.
January 6, 2022
I read this book with my 7 and 10 year old for school. I never knew that falconry was a thing, so the book itself was interesting to me. The book had lovely illustrations that helped tell the story of one part of medieval castle life, that of falconry. It follows one day in the life of medieval falconry.
January 5, 2018
I love Ibatoulline's realistic acrylic gouache paintings. All of the pages are double-page spreads, with lots of detail, surrounded by a border. In addition to the story text, there is a box of explanatory notes on each spread. There is a really nice painting of the falcon above the people in the air, and a falcon's eye view of the landscape below. All-in-all, an excellent non-fiction/fiction picture book.
October 4, 2017
Reviewing for 2017 Beehive poetry long list nominees. Wow. I knew pretty much nothing about falconry, even though I saw a raptor show once. The poetry flowed well and introduced the various parts of falconry back then. Then the more information notes were to the point. I found myself more interested in those than the poetry! And the illustrations were really good.
November 3, 2017
This is the most beautiful and informative children's book I've read in a long time. It will be hard to give it to my grandsons. The narrative is in rhyme with a repetitive last line. Also on each page is information that goes with each rhyme. At the end there is an appendix with additional books to read. An excellent book.
April 27, 2017
Four stars for stunning, detail-rich paintings, and for covering an unusual subject that has narrow but deep appeal. (By which I mean lots of kids will be bored silly by medieval falconry, but the ones who are into it will be INTO IT.)
April 1, 2021
We loved reading this book and learning about the art of Falconry. It was written in a fun simple rhyming way, with further information on each page. I suggest reading the Author's Note at the end too, it is fairly short and had some interesting information about falconry in history and today.
July 22, 2021
❤️’d!
December 14, 2022
The illustrations are gorgeous. If you want a deep dive into falconry, this is your book. If you are looking for a depiction of the middle-ages to share with your 6th graders you might want something a bit more broad or at least human based.
April 1, 2021
Super cute , and interesting
April 18, 2017
An engaging mix of prose and factual information about falconry.
March 29, 2017
Medieval falconry is explored from an author who's father practiced the activity. I was impressed by the illustrations. The close up falcon feathers were life like. The spreads had a medieval painting feel to them and I appreciated the border on each page. This is part story and part inserted fact and it balances well. Not a story I have seen before.
March 28, 2017
The illustrations are simply gorgeous. The sidebars explaining falconry terms are very informative. Maybe a good candidate for the Siebert?
June 25, 2021
Borrowed from the library but I may buy a copy
May 24, 2017
This book hit so many of my yes buttons that I am practically drooling to add it to my own library. First off, the illustrations are lush with the kind of quality of art that half sells the book right off the bat. Since this is a non fiction book based on the life of a hawk in medieval times, the story itself is fascinating and full of information that is easily understand and reflected with these entrancing pictures. Along with this historical foray into falconry, the book also realistically illustrates castle life as it flows around our main characters who are portrayed in a manner that can only encourage your child to want to learn more about the past and the commonalities of our times as well.
June 10, 2017
Beautifully illustrated history, with each double-page dedicating most of its real estate to Ibaoulline's lavish and detailed paintings, with a little text and accompanying explanatory text. This is a brilliant way to help the reader avoid having to shuffle back and forth to end notes or a glossary. Two pages of end notes from the author add her personal connection to the book: her own experience with falconry while she was growing up.
July 6, 2017
This book has excellent illustrations, very life-like pictures! The rhyming way it is written is an easy read and helps explain falconry, along with the pictures, to younger children. The additional text on each page is a bonus, as it gives much more detail, and makes the book even more educational and interesting to upper elementary readers. I also like the Author's Note at the end of the book.
July 8, 2017
Gorgeously detailed and lush paintings surrounded by a historically appropriate border make this a striking book on an interesting topic. Some kids will really love this one. The small information boxes are well-placed and provide relevant information. I like that the small illustrations in these look like medieval drawings in texts. The rhyme and the use of a father and daughter are also nicely done.
April 27, 2017
This is a great and accurate story about a father and daughter on a typical falconing (is this a word?) excursion. There's awesome detail in the illustrations and factoids about falcons and tactics in the sidebar as well. It's a very informative history read, but still accessible to youngsters who might be interested.
May 10, 2017
Kids will want to fly on the wings of this majestic bird, soaring through the beautiful landscape all the while learning about the sport of falconry . Danna Smith's graceful words propel the story along connecting children with the little girl in the story who's father is the falconer of the castle. A beautiful combination of words and art!
May 11, 2017
Extremely realistic illustrations accompany this rhyming text about a day in the life of a falcon in a medieval castle. Beautiful pages make the story interesting to read, and facts accompany the relatively short text. Great for an introduction to falcons and falconry and also for fans of medieval history and/or Game of Thrones.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews