Review of "Hood"

"Men and horses do not simply dissolve into the air."

     Welcome to Wales, the setting for Stephen R. Lawhead's rendition of the Robin Hood legend, entitled Hood. When Normans invade his home, Prince Bran ap Brychan must flee Elfael and seek out his mother's people in the north. But when an injury lands him in the healing hands of an old forest woman, Bran's flight is put on hold indefinitely. By the time he recovers, all plans for the future have become uncertain, and he is introduced to a new possibility. This comes in the form of a band of refugees-turned-brigands who want nothing more than to reclaim their homeland, and Bran can help them do it--if he can come to terms with his royal inheritance and the responsibilities it entails.

     Although Hood is not set in Sherwood Forest, Lawhead does not spoil the authenticity of Robin Hood with his changes. His writing is sound, stitched through with traditions, superstition, intrigue, and insightful knowledge of the human mind. The world in which Bran lives is expansive, his story not confined to a single wood and the area surrounding it. Through Lawhead's writing, all Britain comes to life, steeped in legend and an aura of firsthand experience. Whether it's weather, culture, or dealings with the church, every detail is meticulously placed and lends Bran's story a ring of truth.

     Of course, Robin Hood is not the only character in this story. Every character of note from the original tale is present, in one form or another, in this story. Mérian is no longer a shepherdess, but the daughter of Lord Cadwgan of Eiwas, and she is a strong, well-rounded character in her own right. Friar Tuck is also present, full of good cheer and a kindly heart. There is also Little John, Iwan, and a host of others, each with distinct personalities and a penchant for well-intentioned thievery. Bran himself is an extremely prideful character who is both frustrating and relatable, shunning his post in an attempt to escape the memory of his cruel father, the late king. Bran makes for a great Robin Hood, and the development of his personality is interesting to watch.

     This is not a plot solely revolving around thievery, however. Although Bran does eventually become Robin Hood, he must first learn the ways of the wood and mature past his initial flightiness. Meanwhile, a count is hatching a plan to expand his rule and the king is building his army, and his treasury, through trickery and deceit. Power plays are made, a bishop is insulted, and the people of Elfael are slowly starving to death. There are some slow parts in this tale, but even these make for interesting subplots.

     Although this is the story of Robin Hood, which many of us grew up with, it may not be entirely appropriate for children. Characters often swear by Christ or the saints, and the count does threaten to draw and quarter two of Bran's band should they be caught. However, violence, though common, is usually rather mild. Mérian is also looked upon with with a hint of lust by the local baron.

     I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a rounded, compelling rewrite of the classic Robin Hood stories. Although it does pass slowly at times, the prose is well-crafted and the characters are cemented in a sense of reality. Despite its relocation to Wales, Hood is set in an expansive world rich with history. For a great setting and a plot that is more than it seems, I give Stephen R. Lawhead's Hood five stars.