Content levels
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
Fans of the King Arthur legend will love this tale about one of the most fascinating and misunderstood heroes of Arthurian lore. An epic fantasy comes to life for Camelot fans. What will a person give to forsake his destiny? From his very incarnation, Mordred has been a pawn in Camelot's history. Foretold by Merlin that he will grow up to kill his father, the beloved King Arthur, young Mordred struggles with his fate, loathing the great king who tried to kill him as a baby, yet journeying to Camelot where he learns to serve and idolize the legendary leader. Torn between feelings of love and hate, Mordred yearns to make peace with Arthur, who still refuses to acknowledge him. But Mordred is determined to have peace at any price--even if it costs him his soul. "In language worthy of her heroic subject, Springer reworks Arthuriana to craft an original tale resonant with archetypal themes of love, loss, betrayal and reconciliation. Her strong female characters and bold recasting of traditional villains and heroes will draw the rapt attention of both sexes." -- *Publishers Weekly*
Is I Am Mordred appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This Arthurian retelling from the villain's perspective contains moderate fantasy violence including Arthur's attempt to kill Mordred as a baby and the prophecy of patricide. The emotional complexity of loving and hating one's father may resonate with teens navigating family relationships.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include child harm, emotional abuse, attempted murder, and death of parent (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens will be drawn to this sympathetic portrayal of one of literature's most famous villains, exploring whether someone can escape their destiny.