DK Eyewitness Books: Knight
DK Eyewitness Books Series
on Goodreads (291)
What’s inside...
Take an inside look at the life of a knight in the updated edition of Eyewitness: Knight, exploring everything from battles and banquets to sieges and chivalry. The book features illustrations, maps, charts, and timelines that delve into the history of medieval knights, their armor, jousting, heraldry, hawking, and crusades. Content is suitable for 8-12 year olds, covering the origins, heyday, and decline of knighthood, chivalry, and the feudal system. Detailed photographs and vibrant annotated images accompany reduced and reworked text designed to engage younger readers. Discover how armor was made, the process of becoming a knight, and what life in a medieval castle was like.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it was like to be a knight during medieval times?
How do knights in the book compare to how knights are usually portrayed in movies and cartoons?
Why do you think knights wore armor, and what challenges do you think they faced with it?
Can you describe the role of a castle during a knight’s life?
What values do you think were important for knights to have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Let your child first explain what they understand about knights and castles, then introduce them to the book to see how their perceptions change or develop.
Compare and contrast the historical facts in the book with fictional stories about knights that your child might be familiar with.
Encourage your child to think about the human aspects of being a knight—such as courage, loyalty, and duty—by discussing how they might apply those values in their own life.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book or to imagine and sketch their own knight’s armor.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The life of knights is depicted through tales of their valiant deeds and courageous acts on and off the battlefield.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of bravery in facing their own challenges, whether standing up against bullying or trying new activities.
Example Lesson: Chivalry and Respect
Explanation: The book highlights the Code of Chivalry, emphasizing respect, honor, and courteous conduct expected of knights.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these principles in their daily interactions, showing respect and politeness towards others, demonstrating good manners at home and school.
Example Lesson: Dedication and Discipline
Explanation: Knights underwent rigorous training and held a strong commitment to their roles, showcasing the importance of dedication.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of dedication and hard work in achieving goals, such as in sports or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: History and Culture
Explanation: The book provides a historical look into the Middle Ages, offering insights into the cultural context of knights.
Real-World Application: Children gain knowledge about history, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of different times and cultures, encouraging cultural literacy.
Example Lesson: Leadership and Responsibility
Explanation: Knights often held leadership roles, bearing responsibilities towards their lord and those under their protection.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to adopt leadership roles in group settings, learn to take responsibility for their actions, and care for others in their community.