Hood, Robin Hood

Scarlet

By A.C. Gaughen

Taken in by Robin Hood and his “merry men”, Scarlet hides her identity. No one in the town of Nottinghamshire knows she's a girl, but the select few of Robin's crew. A master thief, she is skilled with knives and steals to help those in need. When Lord Gisbourne comes to town, Scarlet fears that her past will catch up to her. Even worse, she might lose the trust of the men who have taken her in.

Told in the early days of Robin, the readers are treated to a rough-around-the-edges adolescent Robin. Not quite the legendary hero ... yet. So too, we are introduced to our main character, known in most lore as Will Scarlet. In this rendition, Scarlet is a girl masquerading as a boy.

I really liked the twist on the old tale. Robin Hood is one of those legends that if you read one, you've read them all. Gaughen shapes the story in a way that keeps it fresh and still recognizable.

If you can get past the flirting love-triangle between Scarlet, Robin, and Little John, then you get to a story of adventure, funny interactions, and tests of loyalty, friendship and trust.

There is a sequel. Shocker. Actually a trio. Not shocked anymore. Duh, do I sense an annoying trend of young adult literature today? Maybe I'll check out the second book. Though, I did feel that this novel, on its own is just fine.

4/5 STARS

Classroom: When exploring the tale of Robin Hood, market this book absolutely, however, not to use as a classroom novel.