Contemporary Literary Criticism | Sutcliff, Rosemary - Eric Hood

ERIC HOOD

A bronze-age boy had to kill a wolf single-handed before he could wear the warrior's scarlet, the mantle of manhood. For Drem, the test was doubly difficult because of a crippled right arm….

This tale of the testing of Drem [Warrior Scarlet] is a splendid excursion into the past, a fine reconstruction of prehistoric rituals. Set in southern England, the novel is evocative in mood and revealing in detail. The courage and determination of the handicapped hero are implied through actions that speak louder than words. Young people will read the author's message and be grateful for the absence of patronizing explanations and sentimentality. Style and taste lift this novel well above the average tale of adventure. It is smooth stuff, showing a steady hand on the narrative and an eye for color.

Eric Hood, "Mantle of Manhood," in The New York Times Book Review (© 1959 by The New York Times Company; reprinted by...

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