Jerry Jares

The strength of this book, in my opinion, is that the authors reminded the reader to look at Richard's actions in the light of the times in which he lived. For example, Richard set down certain rules for traveling over the seas in cramped ships (to the 3rd Crusade). He knew that the men would become restive and want to fight each other. Therefore, he set severe punishments for any fighting or troublemaking. In today's light, they seem barbaric. But in his time, this was an accepted way of keeping the peace on long voyages. I appreciated that the photos and drawings were in color. There were adequate maps (in color) to show Richard's travels. Probably the worst thing that could be said of this excellent leader and warrior is that he was so busy fighting to retake some of his former lands, that Richard only spent 6 months leading his own nation. When he was killed, he left England in his brother John's hands. The country barely survived John's leadership. This is a colorful, well-documented recitation of Richard I's life. The authors offered a glossary, a timeline, a chronology and copious readings for more information, both in books and on the Internet.