Daredevils and Desperadoes: 20 Stories from British History

Publisher and industry reviews

UK Kirkus review

For this collection, acclaimed children's author Geraldine McCaughrean has written updated versions of 20 stories from British history and folklore. Ranging from the 14th century through to the early 17th, she covers such well-known figures and events as Dick Whittington, the Princes in the Tower and the Gunpowder Plot. Each tale is related in a very readable and lively style, with excellent cartoon illustrations throughout. At the end of each story McCaughrean gives the real facts behind the tale, telling us that Dick Whittington never owned a cat and that Little Jack Horner was really the thieving steward of the Abbot of Glastonbury. This makes for very interesting reading and enables children to learn about the differences between myth and reality. Aimed at upper primary school age, this is a very accessible and enjoyable look at British history. It is easily on a par with the very popular Horrible Histories series and will engage the attention of even the least enthusiastic child. Ages 7+ (Kirkus UK)