The Boy's Book of Heroes

A spirited young Saxon named Hereward finds himself outlawed by his own father, the powerful Earl Leofric, after a series of reckless quarrels that disturb the peace of their Mercian home. Accompanied only by his loyal servant Martin, he embarks on a rugged exile, wandering through forests and crossing into the wild lands beyond Northumberland. Along the way he meets the generous Flemish lord Gilbert of Ghent, who offers him shelter and a chance to prove his worth among new companions.

In the sprawling halls of Gilbert’s estate, Hereward’s talent for hunting, music, and bravado quickly wins admiration, even from the ladies who gather for winter festivities. When a massive white bear—said to be descended from a legendary Norwegian beast—breaks free from its cage, chaos erupts. As knights fumble and panic spreads, Hereward is the only one poised to confront the roaring creature, setting the stage for a daring test of courage that could reshape his reputation.