The Outlaws of Sherwood by Robin McKinley

Genre: Historical Fiction, Youth
Length 282 pages

Reviewed by: Jackie Hugh

“An arrow whistled past Robin’s ear. It whistled so close that it creased the nape of his neck, gently, and the narrow place where it had rubbed was red and painful for many days. Fear jumped back into Robin’s throat and stopped his breathing, and his bowels turned to water. ...he aimed neither well nor carefully...and he took no thought for consequences... but was nonetheless appalled as he saw the feathered shaft appear as if by magic in Tom’s broad chest...”

Robin McKinley’s The Outlaws of Sherwood is a refreshingly new look at the beloved story of Robin Hood. When Robin, a young forester in Sherwood, finds himself charged with murder, he and his not-so-merry friends are forced to flee into Sherwood. Living in the rough, Robin and his band of outlaws are forced to become skilled woodsmen, robbing from the rich and giving to the poor. Danger threatens Robin and his little band from every side, forcing him to become what he isn’t: the heroic protector.

Robin McKinley’s writing style is wonderful. The newness in which she portrays Robin Hood is a very refreshing change from the dashing, swinging-from-branches Robin we’re all used to. McKinley creates a stubborn outlaw stuck in a legend in which he is portrayed as a wondrous shot, which in reality he’s not. All of her characters have great depth and personalities. Sarcastic Much, stubborn Marian and unwilling Robin are all painted in a way that is understandable and likable.

Robin, realizing his role as the leader of the band, unwillingly accepts the full responsibility of protector and provider, though he feels less than happy about teaching his band how to steal. Another small point is that a friar takes a slightly irreverent view of praying and forgiveness.

All in all this book is a must read for anyone interested in Robin Hood, archery or just plain rousing action. Robin McKinley’s captivating and enchanting style covers every page in this book. Fans of McKinley will love this classic retelling of the legend of Robin Hood.