Door in the Wall: Novel-Ties Study Guide

This book is set in medieval England and was written, (and awarded the Newbery), in 1949. As between the medieval setting and the 1940's writing style I'm not entirely sure which is the more old-fashioned. That said, the book is colorful, sweet tempered, and actually pretty well paced for such a book written at such a time.

We follow Robin's challenges, adventures, and courageous spirit through a series of misadventures that conclude with a perilous castle siege. Through it all Robin remains steadfast, spirited and honorable, despite many challenges. You could have a lot worse message in a lot worse package, and since this book is well-served by its brevity, its upbeat hero, the colorful setting, and its rather crisp construction I could see this as a nice change-of-pace adventure with a strong, clear, decent message at its heart.

I read this book in school, probably middle school age, and am re-reading it as part of my Newbery project. I vaguely remember being ambivalent about the book as a student, but re-read it just to be sure. I got a lot more out of the book this time around.

This is the story of Robin, a nobleman's son who is taken ill and becomes paralyzed. He was supposed to be a page in another nobleman's house, but the loss of his ability to do so causes him depression. Through the efforts of people like Brother Luke and members of the nobleman's house, he slowly realizes he isn't a failure, and soon is faced with a daunting task to save the castle from a marauding force.

One of the main themes of this book is that you do the best with what you have and you will find a way to accomplish what you need to. Robin overcomes his anger at his condition and sees he has value in the world, and can be a hero. Pretty powerful message that resonates even more clearly for the fact that the book was written 50 years ago, when being handicapped was considered to be a life-limiter. Of course, he has help, and has to learn to accept the help, along with the gentle goading of people who genuinely care. I enjoyed the period detail--it really felt like I was in the London of this time, when England was still a bit wild and threatening. And I really liked that Robin was a flawed hero; he wasn't accepting of his disablility, he was a brat, but he changes through the story, and became a decent person.

I would recommend this book. I think a lot of discussion could be started based on the events of the book, and the hurdles Robin has to overcome, both mental and physical. It's not a long read--I read it in a few hours--and it is worth it.

This is the book review my granddaughter wrote.

In Marguerite de Angeli’s fictional novel, The Door in the Wall, Robin, a young son of Sir John de Bureford, is expected to become a knight like his father. However, Robin’s future is turned upside down when he falls ill and loses the use of his legs. After a series of events, Robin is left alone by his family and servants. Brother Luke, a monk, saves Robin and teaches him how to be patient and strong. He encourages Robin, “Thou hast only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it.” Will Robin’s “wall” of disability prevent him from persevering in his search for the door that leads to victory over despair?

Before I read this book I thought I wouldn't like it, but after awhile I really enjoyed it and found it difficult to put down. I was amazed at how the author explained the struggles that Robin endured through various misfortunes and was determined to hold on to what he loved most. If I had a disability like Robin’s, I don't think I would have the strength, mentally and physically, to overcome it. This book really inspired me to find new “doors” in my own life and persevere like Robin. Not only would I want young kids to read this book, but also older people, especially if they are disabled. I hope that they would also be inspired by Robin’s exploits, just as I was. With all that the book offers, I would rate this book four star.

This book is set in medieval England and was written, (and awarded the Newbery), in 1949. As between the medieval setting and the 1940's writing style I'm not entirely sure which is the more old-fashioned. That said, the book is colorful, sweet tempered, and actually pretty well paced for such a book written at such a time.

We follow Robin's challenges, adventures, and courageous spirit through a series of misadventures that conclude with a perilous castle siege. Through it all Robin remains steadfast, spirited and honorable, despite many challenges. You could have a lot worse message in a lot worse package, and since this book is well-served by its brevity, its upbeat hero, the colorful setting, and its rather crisp construction I could see this as a nice change-of-pace adventure with a strong, clear, decent message at its heart.

Sent in England during the Middle Ages, this book is rich with culture and history. Robin, the crippled son of a nobleman, faces a bleak history. His purpose in life is to be a page, and then knight, for his King - but how can a crippled boy be a page? Through the kindness of strangers-turned-family, Robin learns there are many ways to serve. As Brother Luke says, there is always a door in the wall. While a good story, I uncertain why it merits a Newbery Medal. The story, while meticulous in historic detail, is good but not great. Perhaps because it is subtle. Robin only slightly struggles, then quickly adapts to a life of trying and working with an ease that seems unrealistic. He rarely suffers set backs or hardships, which robs his "trying" of its triumph. Despite this, I would recommend this book to anyone with kids, particularly boys or those interested in historical stories.

As a mother who screens everything her 12-year-old daughter reads, it is always nice to read a book written before said daughter was born, written in language that doesn't sound like speech, and at a pace that doesn't resemble a car chase. Some of those books include "Swallows and the stores" and "Anne of Green Gables" - which are very different in subject matter, but still, short of being the great literary classics like Dickens and Austen, are nevertheless written for children by (quite obviously) loving and gentle adults. I enjoyed "The Door in the Wall" because it is clearly a morality tale, set during a time of high moral standards and great faith. I thought the subject matter was very apt to the time the book was set, and the love for the author's subject matter showed through very clearly in the pacing and style of the writing. I am really glad this title was chosen for our homeschooling group for class discussion, and can't wait for it to be available in Kindle! Said daughter's review follows:

"The book, 'The Door in the Wall' by Marguerite de Angeli was a great book, worthy of its Newbery Award.

"Robin, son of Sir John de Bureford, was supposed to be traveling to knight school the day after his Lady mother went off to care for the Queen and his father to fight beside the King. Instead, he became ill and lost the use of his legs. Luckily for him, Brother Luke found him, and helped care for and nurse him back to health. Soon, Robin is able to swim, read and even build ships and toys. He is then sent to live with his godfather, Sir Peter. But when Sir Peter's castle is under siege, will Robin find the courage to open his 'door in the wall' and save the day?

"My favorite part was at the end, when in the midst of all the celebrating and what-not, Brother Luke says to Robin, '...thou hast found the door in thy wall.' I really like that and thought that it was the perfect ending.

"My favorite character was Robin because he was brave, and he was willing to risk his life to help save his godfather and the people that his godfather had to take care of. However, Robin at the beginning of the story was rude and ungrateful. I liked how in the book he eventually changed for the better - but I didn't like how he had to change his ways to begin with.

"I would give the book five stars: two stars for the characters, two stars for the plot and one star for the perfect ending to a great story."

Yesterday I had the pleasure of finally reading a book that qualifies for my 2013 Pre-1960 Classic Children's Books Reading Challenge that I'm hosting this year and since this is the first book that I read for the challenge I'm glad the one I chose to read was a good one.

The Door in the Wall is a classic piece of historical fiction for children written by Newbury Award winner Marguerite de Angeli and after reading it I can certainly see why it is held in such esteem. The book takes place in England during the time of the plague in the middle ages and follows the story of young Robin, a 10 year old boy stricken by what I believe (given the symptoms he exhibits) is polio.

When Robin is left in the care of a Friar after the plague sweeps through his father's household he comes to terms with the fact that he will never be a knight but he also learns many lessons about humility, patience, and the value of doing something the hard way and also that just because he's disabled that doesn't mean he still can't accomplish great feats.

This is further proven when later on in the book our young protagonist is the one who saves the day when the castle he has moved to be a ward of a knight friend of his father has come under attack thus earning the love and respect of all around him.

I thought the book held a wonderful message for children that just because you have a perceived disability it doesn't change the fact that if you aspire to greatness you have more chances of achieving it.

The historical setting was wonderfully done, and I loved how even though this was a children's book that the author still wrote the dialogue in the way that people during the time actually spoke to give it that authentic feel. The characters were lovely and I especially Brother Luke for the time he took to teach Robin about the things that really matter in life.

I would recommend this to anyone who loves classic children's books and those who are teachers, librarians, parents, and whoever else has children in their lives to read this to them. It's a great book for kids to read and the message it has is wonderful. This is one that I would say needs a spot on every child's bookcase.

The settings are first the castle, next the Brother's work, lastly Lindsay. The characters are Robin( the main one), his Father and Mother, Brother Luke, Brother Matthew, and John- in the Wynd. This book has a lot of moving. Robin, Luke, and John all traveled. That's why there so many settings.

Robin is going to be trained to be a soldier for his father the chief. When he is 10 years old he becomes lame in both legs and is sent to be with Brother Luke, Brother Matthew, and John in the Wynd. Brother Luke and Brother Matthew teach Robin to carve while Luke also teaches Robin to swim. One day Robin is carving a cross and it broke, in frustration he threw the tool he was using and it almost hit Brother Matthew. A few days later they said goodbye to the place where the brothers work.

Brother Luke, Robin, and John in the Wynd said goodbye to Brother Matthew and the others and went on their journey. After a long while on the road they came to a fork in the road. They decided to take the right fork. At night they got nowhere . Brother Luke said "we took the wrong fork." The next evening they came to an inn to rest for the night. While they rested, Robin overheard a sneaky plan that the owner was planning to do to them.

They snuck out the window and ran! The owner and his worker saw them and ran after them. Robin tripped them with his crutches and they were able to escape. The next afternoon they saw Lindsay. They entered the city and Robin wanted to make a harp so he began to carve one. The Welsh, another army, attacked the city to start a war. Lindsay sent Robin in a shepherd suit, in the middle of the battle, to go get water because they had ran out.

Anyway I won't spoil it for you. I rated it five stars because it was a really good book. It wasn't the best book I read but it was really good!

If I were you I would read it!!

Matthew

Grade 6

. The main charictors in the book are Robin,father,the brothers,and also Ellen.The setting for most of the book is sunny and all.They where mostly in there houses and there village.
. The begging is mostly about the charictors I said in the start.we just figure out Robin has the pluege Wich is very sad.He is sad that his father is leaving all the time.It is mostly about Robin and Ellen at this point.
. They where talking about Robin he yelledand said he couldn't move his back. He said that he went swimming and it helped his back and legs and all.

. It is a lot about Robin going... Not telling I'm going to see if you will read. There were the students who most of them were poor. Robin wanted to be everywhere at once he said.

. The book was not that interesting like you didn't get that jump to want to keep reading. I thought it would get better and better but it didn't.

The main characters are: Robin,Brother Luke,Brother Matthew,John,Adam,and Sir. Peter. The settings are in the great castle of Lindsay,London,The Brothers' School,and the Fair. There are more characters like: Lady Constance,Sir. Hugh Fitzhugh,Ellen,Henry,Richard. Allison,St. Mark,William,Thomas,and Roger.
In the beginning of the book, it tells us that Robin's destiny has changed when he falls ill and loses the use of his legs. When his
servants learn about this, they abandon him, and Robin is left alone. One day, a monk named Brother Luke rescues Robin and takes
him to the hospice of St. Mark's, where he is taught woodcarving,patience,and strength. Brother Luke toke care of Robin, for days, he
brought him food, kept him washed, and changed his clothes for him.
At the middle, when Robin woke up one morning, John-go-in-the-wynd had a good fire going, even though rain fell at intervals and the wind was still blowing. He was grilling slice of bacon over the fire, and standing beside him was Brother Luke holding a large loaf from which he was cutting huge slices of bread. A shephard, one day, told them to follow the path to a certain stream at the far side of the wood which would shortly lead them to the highroad, they found it without difficulty. Later on, at the village of Heathcot by dusk, they found an inn at the edge of town, its thatch pulled down over its eyes of windows wherein could be seen a smoky light from the fire.
One morning, when the weather cleared, and by the end of the fourth day, the spires of Oxford suddenly appeared, before long they crossed
the Cherwell into the High Street. Sometimes the road led through forests, then, again, it ran beside the river, crossed a bridge, and went up through a village. In his midst rode a lady with her attendants, Robin wished that this lady had been his mother. Robin wanted to do everything at the fair,like eating all the food, and to see and watch everything at one.
The reason why I like this book is because it tells us about a boy, named Robin who got a suffering who met new friends and went to a great adventure. Also, when he had positive ways and journeys with Brother Luke. Where he was healed, and when he could walk, again.
Finally when he learned to be a good person, for sucess.

This story takes place in London, where a young boy named robin is being trained to be a knight, but he cannot walk, because he had the plague, so his legs are damaged. He has a brother named Luke. He also has a man who helps Luke take good care of Robin who is also Robin's friend named John-the-Fletcher. Robin's father is in the war and his mother is the queen.
Luke cared for Robin and he took care of all of his needs. In their town, the plague had started to die down, but still, many people had moved far away from London. As the days went on, Luke took Robin swimming and Robin thought that he was becoming stronger and so did Brother Luke.
Robin had been swimming almost every day when they were on their journey and as they traveled, Robin got stronger and they were traveling to find out if their father was still alive and to see their mother, who was the queen.
The town was running out of food and water and they hat to stop at John-the-Fletcher's mother's house because they needed help and because there were some other events that you'll have to find out for yourself when you read the book!
I didn't particularly like this book because there was so much old English audit just wasn't exciting for me, I had a hard time understanding all of the book and the chapters I was reading and I didn't really know all of the facts and events that had happened.

The setting takes place in London where Robin is to be trained to be a knight. Robin has a plague that makes him unable to move his legs. There is a lady who brings him food everyday but she leaves and Brother Luke takes care of him. Later on in the story John-go-in-the-wynd helps Robin with all different kinds of challenges.
Robin gets bored just laying in bed, so Brother Luke makes sure to keep him busy. He (Brother Luke) teaches Robin so many things and Robin grows stronger everyday. One day Brother Luke told Robin a great piece of advice. Little did Robin know that it was true and he would use it one day.
The plague had mostly cleared out so Brother Luke took Robin outside. Robin swims for the first time that day. He liked it so much that he decides to do it everyday. Robin gets a lot more stronger and builds himself something to help him walk. One day he got a letter from someone so he, Luke, and John plan to leave to find this person.
Robin, Brother Luke, and John leave for their trip. They go from cabin to cabin staying over night then traveling through the day. When the got to their destination Robin kept on swimming and learning so much! After a few days trouble falls on their hand and they rely on Robin to help save the day.
I thought this book was kind of boring. It had some cliffhangers where I was intreaged to read more but didn't continue to hold my attention. The book had a lot of old English that confused me a little bit. It has periods of being interesting but I found my thoughts wandering after a few minutes.

My husband and I each took turns reading this book every night at bed time to our 6.5 year-old boy. Last night we were so into it that we couldn't stop reading (I got in bed w/ them and listened while my husband read) even after our son fell asleep!

I agree with the reviewer who wrote that a little preparation would be in order for SOME kids - especially if they're on the younger side and are going to read it on their own as opposed to being read aloud to and if they need major constant action or else get bored! That said, there is a lot of action in this book. My son loves playing w/ his toy castle and knights, etc. I've made a point to teach him a little fun medieval history and terminology just cause I thought his interest in the castle and playing war and such gave me an opportunity to teach him something useful as well as learn myself about medieval history which I never really learned. I even downloaded some medieval music off of itunes and the store MP3 music which is beautiful to listen to - so our whole family has benefited from getting geeky this way and learning some history.

My son who is only in 1st grade would not be able to read this to himself but he can follow well listening - with the occasional explanation. Any child reading to himself/herself should probably get a heads up about some of the terminology but not necessarily...it really is a good read and our 6 year-old certainly didn't have a problem with the pace (and he's not "talented and gifted"). I'm presently reading Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth and what's funny is that his book is so similar at times to The Door in the Wall (both taking place in the same time and region) that I've actually gotten confused about which story line I'm supposed to be following when I pick up one book or the other! I find that hilarious considering one is clearly for adults and the other for kids.

The final point I want to make is that our family is not religious - not one bit - and we're not bothered whatsoever by the book having a little bit in there about God and prayer and monks. In those days religion was like TV is now - it was everywhere and in everything. And there was a certain comfort in the "religious" messages in the book which rather than getting preachy, simply had to do with that culture and with the beauty that can come with ritual, as well as themes of determination, hard work, discipline, humility, kindness, faith, love, etc. The main message in the book is not at all about religion, but rather that being disabled doesn't make one helpless and that everyone has his strengths and weaknesses.

It's a FABULOUS book - for any age, really.

ISBN 0440402832 - A Newbery Award Medal Winner and winner of the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award, The Door in the Wall is an excellent book about finding your own way.

Robin's father is off fighting for the king, his mother is lady-in-waiting to the queen and the plague is sweeping through London. Robin finds himself alone and unable to use his legs; he tries to be brave as a knight should be, but he's scared and feeling bad for himself. When Brother Luke finds him and brings him to the hospice, he tells Robin that if he comes to a wall, and follows the wall far enough, he will find a door. Robin doesn't understand what this means, but he trusts the friar and learns from him.

Robin's wall is that he's unable to walk alone and his worries that he'll let his father down because he cannot become a knight. With the help of the friars, he finds his door in that wall and becomes stronger, just in time. The castle of Lindsay is under siege and Robin is the only one who can save them all.

The language is old-fashioned and there's a sentence or two that were difficult for me to make sense of, so that might be a barrier for the young reader. Still, more than worth the time it took to read, even for adults!

- AnnaLovesBooks

REVIEWED BY: Wayne Walker

Robin is the young son of Sir John de Bureford, a nobleman of London, England, in the early 1400s. Ever since he can remember, has been told what is expected of him as the son of a nobleman to learn the ways of knighthood. His father is off fighting the Scottish wars and his mother is away attending to the Queen who becomes ill during an outbreak of the plague. Robin himself is to be taken to the castle of his cousin Sir Peter de Lindsay to serve as a squire but becomes ill and loses the use of his legs. Fearing the plague, all the servants abandon him and some even die, so Robin is left alone. A monk named Brother Luke rescues the boy and takes him to the hospice of St. Mark's, where he is taught woodcarving. With the help of the monks, Robin learns patience and strength. Brother Luke tells him, "Thou has only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it."

While still suffering from crooked feet and lameness, Robin eventually gains sufficient strength and learns to walk with crutches, so that he can be taken by Brother Luke and the minstrel John-go-in-the-Wynd to the Castle Lindsay. They experience many exciting adventures along the way, but Robin continually wonders what his father will think of him in his weakened condition, since he can never become a knight. After they arrive at the castle, it is attacked by the Welsh. Is there anything that Robin, who cannot mount a house and ride off into battle, might do to find a "door in the wall" that will help save the townspeople and earn the respect of his father? This is a genuinely moving story which won the 1950 Newbery Medal.

Robin's attitude at the beginning, and even after he first becomes ill, is somewhat selfish and even whiny as one might expect from the spoiled son of a nobleman, but he certainly learns better as a result of his sufferings and his effort to overcome them. Many good character traits are exemplified. Each one of us has some kind of handicap or disability, and what happens Robin teaches us that rather than feeling sorry for ourselves or worse yet complaining about our lot, we should be looking for "the door in the wall" that will enable us to do what we can. The only objection is a few references to drinking ale. Also some common Roman Catholic concepts and practices of the day are mentioned, but these show how important religion was during that time. We did this as a family read aloud, and all of us really liked it.

I discovered this book at the library and liked it so much that I bought my own copy. I have since decided that it's best read aloud; there are pleasant subtlties of the rhythm and consonance that I missed in my first quick (and silent) reading. Also, if you're reading aloud, you can read it to younger children than I would attempt as an independently read chapter book. Reading aloud solves some of the language challenges.

When I think about this book, I remember the timelessness of the "learning about yourself" and "doing your best" themes. I remember the high proportion of adults who are helpful and kind -- even the military invaders in this book are kind to children -- and the great number of usually forgotten people who served the public and their country through the social safety net provided by the medieval church. I think about the author's beautiful illustrations and descriptions of people and places in this medieval, 1300s setting.

What struck me as odd a few minutes ago is that I don't ever think about the fact that the central character of this book is physically disabled, and how accepted this is by all of the characters in the book. This is particularly unusual because the book was written more than half a century ago about a time that is more than half a millenium ago, so it well predates the modern sense of "political correctness" or social support for people with disabilities.

The disability drives the plot and the protagonist's character development in some respects, but it's really not dwelt on -- the disability is a fact, and what remains is not to point out how special he is or what noble character he was endowed with, but to see how a pretty average child adapts to life as it is, instead of life as he expected.

Since so many modern books that cross my desk are filled with petty junior-high boy-girl interactions, or write off *all* of the adults as uncaring or useless (or worse), I have particularly enjoyed reading this uplifting book.

All of the characters believe in working persistently towards your goals and doing your best. Furthermore, in an age of preternaturally precocious protagonists who do daring things but learn very little, Robin has clear character flaws -- he even throws temper tantrums early in the book -- and you can see him growing up as the chapters go by. Problems are solved, skills are developed, and the solution to the castle's invasion difficulty and Robin's future is resolved in the end.

I know that a study guide is available for this book, but I don't know if "The Door in the Wall" is widely used in schools. It's length (a little to the short side) is a good recommendation, and it's positive, inclusion-oriented attitude towards people with disabilities also speaks well of it. Despite the number of pages spent on military actions, it's really a non-violent book, which will appeal to many parents. (But fewer boys: it's not gross enough, and everyone will think it's a little slow.)

However, despite these points in its favor, I think that most public school teachers will want to think carefully before using this as REQUIRED reading for ALL students, because it portrays the institutional Christian religion in a uniformly positive manner -- and every public school seems to have at least one loud parent who will be offended by anything that isn't snidely disparaging of religion. It's a good book, but it's not good enough to risk a lawsuit.

As an elementary school librarian, I think it's informative to read all the reviews found here. It can be summed up that readers either like or dislike this Newbery Award winning book. There is no middle ground.
However, one should pay attention to the many negative reviews by "bored" students. It's my opinion that these students were probably not sufficiently prepared to read this short--but somewhat challenging--story. If a teacher just passes this book out, or says, "Go read a Newbery book," then I don't blame them for yawning.
I think a student's interest level would increase if they had some sense of the language, as well as an understanding of this fascinating historical period. A quick search on the Internet reveals an interesting array of lesson plans, background materials and quizzes.
There are also some excellent--and easy--books that provide helpful background information, such as David Macaulay's "Castle" and "Cathedral;" Jonathan Hunt's "Illuminations;" Aliki's "A Medieval Feast;" or Joe Lasker's "A Tournament of Knights." There are many more good titles available.
It would be beneficial if teachers would pre-read this book and make a list of the unfamiliar terms and the older forms of speech used throughout. (Better yet, it would be wonderful if the publisher would produce an edition with a glossary!) Knowing the language will open many "doors in the wall" for most students.
I've recently been doing some research on what books are considered classics for elementary age students, and "A Door in the Wall," shows up on just about every list I've seen. It is a true classic in many ways.
On an additional note, I have a personal interest in the history of the Christian faith, and it's quite informative to note here the role the Church plays in the everyday lives of the people in Medieval England. I developed a fondness for the way the friar, Brother Luke, was portrayed here. While this is not a "religious" book, and is certainly appropriate for public schools, I think that it could find a nice niche in religious schools (Catholic, Protestant or Orthodox), where a discussion of this title could open doors (pun intended) to a time when Christendom was the norm.

My daughter loved this book.

CAVEAT EMPTOR FOR KINDLE USERS - if you're buying this edition, want the accompanying audio track, and have a child profile set up on your Kindle - THE AUDIO TRACK WILL NOT WORK. I had to spend four solid hours online with the store support to find this out. It would be nice if they stated such in the product description

As a Challenge A tutor for Classical Conversations, I'm required to read this book. Like all of the books selected for the 7th grade curriculum, the main character displays great discipline and virtue. I appreciate the detail of the setting and Robin's heroic actions, but I liked Crispin, Cross of Lead for its depth and conflict.

I remember reading this book ages ago, and I hated. I thought it dated and dull, with its archaic language and details about medieval life. Now, after years of studying mythology, including the Prose Edda, I can better appreciate it. It's not a GREAT book, but it is a good one.
Robin is the son of a knight, destined to become a knight one day himself - until he falls ill and loses the use of his legs. The plague is ravaging medieval England, and it claims several of the servants who were caring for him. Robin is rescued by a kindly monk, Brother Luke, who takes the crippled boy to a local monastary and patiently cares for him there. Under Luke's guidance, Robin learns how to swim, read, whittle, and how to become a humbler person rather than the rather snobby noble boy that he once was.
But all is not well in England. Robin must "open a door in the wall" -- the walls that hemmed him in when he lost the use of his legs -- and discover that you don't necessarily have to be a knight to serve your king and country.
This is not a 9-12 book. Oh, not because of any objectionable content or attitudes, but simply because the, majority of 9-12 children will be bored witless by it. It's better suited to young adults who can handle the gradual pacing, softened archaic language (a fair number of twills, thous, amisses, and arts) and virtually actionless plot. As a result, "Door in the Wall" resembles a a slice of real life from the POV of a crippled boy rather than a fictional story. Such gruesome details as the plague and the violence of war are smudged out, by the way.
It seems a lot longer than its 120 pages. Ignore the silly cover art, the characters aren't like that at all; the interior illustrations are soft and realistic. de Angeli's writing lacks detail much of the time, but her dialogue is well-scripted. Robin's responses to the loss of his legs, his plans, and fear of his father's disappointment are perfectly done. He isn't a perfect lead character; he gets irrational, angry, snobby - but overcomes all of them. Brother Luke seems a little too perfect at times, but is also a good character. So, for that matter, is minstrel John-go-in-the-Wynd. (Yes, this book has those delightful Middle-Ages names based on the job, physical characteristics or past experience)
As for complaints about this book: Note that virtually all of them say that it was a schoolwork book; once again, we have disgruntled students seeking "revenge" on a non-fluff book that they had to read. This is not a book that should be assigned, but a book that should be selected individually. Don't read it just because it's a Newbery, read it if you can handle it!
In short, I recommend this book -- but not to everyone...it if you love to read, and if you enjoy a story where characters are emphasized over action.

The Door In The Wall
By Marguerite De Angeli
Robin the son of a noble family had always been told what was expected of him since his father was a prominent knight and his mother the midwife to Queen Maud. At the age of ten he was expected to be taken from his family to be a page to Sir Peter de Lindsay to learn the ways of knighthood. His father leaves for the wars and his mother is called away. The whole town is infected with the plague and his servants either have died or fled till he is left alone. He himself is sick but not with plague he no longer can move his legs and is weak so he can't go to the castle as intended. Brother Luke a friar at St. Marks finds him bringing him back to the monastery in his care. "Thou hast only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it." His first change is to get used to humble life and to appreciate it. There he is taught patience, how to read and write astronomy, carpentry as well as heavenly devotion. With the plague passed, Brother Luke has more time; Robin is taken to the river where he swims splashing in the water and strengthening his legs. Soon he is able to run on crutches racing the other boys. He sends a letter to his father who arranges him to make the journey to Sir Peter. The monks are busy preparing for the journey getting food and clothing packed it is hard for him to say goodbye he had grown accustomed to their footsteps and hearing the church bells ring. Brother Luke goes along with him as well as a minstrel friend John-go-in-the-Wynd. They have an adventure getting to the castle where Robin begins to wonder why a knight would have need for a cripple. Upon arriving, he makes friends with Adam the guard and the dog D'Ath. "Each of us has his place in the world, if we cannot serve in one way, there is always another. If we do what we are able, a door always opens to something else." While under his lord's service the castle is besieged by Welsh it becomes evident their food supply is low and the well near dry if they have a chance to survive without surrendering someone had to go for help. Robin though a boy takes this mission upon himself dressing as a poor shepherd's lad he swims the river doges the sentry and heads for the cottage of his friend John-go-in-the-Wynd. It was a daring and tiring feat for a boy on crutches but they depended on him and he aimed to do his armored father proud. Yes, if he could reach John-go-in-the-Wynd he could help he was wise for a minstrel. The man protected Robin endearing him as his "young master". A boy on crutches couldn't easily alarm a town or go to a nearby castle for men of arms to help, but John could.
This book is truly worthy of the Newberry Award medal unlike so many it is uplifting instead of depressing. The message of hard work, perseverance, friendship and acceptance is written artfully throughout the book. All the characters have distinct personalities and are developed completely. This book left nothing to be wondered or subjects still open. The story of Robin's life was realistic and as a book had a powerfully beginning, interesting middle and a strong end I believe all who read this book will be happy with the end result. For these reasons I rate it a perfect 10 it was inspiring and the secret message of finding the door in the wall took some time to discover. Angeli's style of writing beautifully intertwined life of that the period from all classes through Robin's youthful eyes. He is a character one roots for and keeps hoping he'll find his way. I can't wait to read it again I recommend this to everyone wanting a good book for I won't understand if one tells me they disliked it.

(...)The book was a basic book with a medieval background, it told of the many things going on, like the war between Ireland and England, and how there was the black plague forming everywhere, killing anybody unlucky enough to catch it. The story basically consists of the little boy, Robin, who has fallen ill due to some sort of disease, he believed it was the plague at first, but then realizes, that it was a different sickness, because it had made his legs useless, thus, the word "crook shanks", and as common knowledge tells us, he was useless to do anything, but he had a job, a job to become a knight, at his godfathers castle, for his father was a knight and as we all know, a knight's son must also become a knight. Robin was lucky enough to be taken in by a kind church, St. Mark's. There he meets a monk named Brother Luke, they become great friends, and Robin sends word to his father, and he goes on his great journey to Sir Peter De Lindsey's castle. They encounter many great problems in their journey, but he makes it safely to his castle, Robin tells Peter that he is useless and cannot do anything, and so Robin learns to do something, something that he had wanted to accomplish...
I think this book is one of the greater books I have read, it shows courage and honor, and how Robin was able to do anything despite his disabilities, and how he was able to do anything he wanted, as long as he put his mind to it. I this that this author was an excellent writer, because this book contain such great sentences, such as, "The calm sound of the peaceful lake was silent". Nevertheless, this book was based of a great plot and had a great background.
Despite how much I loved this book, there was also a catch, I didn't like this book because of how there was so much tragic death because of the black plague and how many people suffered "The Black Plague was everywhere." It makes the medieval times seem like a very horrible place in time where nothing was supposed to go right. Despite the minor issue, I still believe this is a book worth reading.
My favorite part in this book is how cunning Robin was in the situation of being robbed, he was sure not to make a sound, and made sure that he was able to warn Luke without making a sound, I would've enjoyed looking at the face of the thieves. Overall, this book was excellent, the medieval plot, and the great writings of the author. I think this book is a worthwhile book, and is worth reading, and you enjoy reading it over and over again.

First off, HOW can ANYONE give this a one star?!! This is such an uplifting & inspiring book about what you can do even thorugh your disabilities & weaknesses! I have this book & read it over & over! The author said that her inspiration for her illustrations were her children. I look forward to reading more of her books. Buy this, you won't be dissapointed!

I read this in elementary school. I think this is the reason that I used to daydream about being a monk working in a scriptorium. I read it again recently as preparation for a blog post on Newbery Medal books. Still worth reading.

The protagonist, a thoroughly spoiled youth named Robin, is rendered lame by a disease. Mercifully, and mysteriously enough, a monk comes to his abandoned home, picks him up and brings Robin to a monastery. At this gentle place, as the monk guides him, Robin learns self-discipline and many kinds of practical skills. It is a redemption, though Robin's spirit is still broken about his lame legs.

A wartime crisis comes about and Robin is the only one who can deliver vital information to his father, a lord in service to the king (Robin's mother also serves at the court.)

Robin is successful and this success brings about transformational healing of his spirit. His father's tremendous pride in him brings Robin much joy, and the comfort of his mother is yet another blessing.

The illness - our sin that renders us lame
Rehabilitation in spite of, or by use of, some permanent wound -- redemption and training for spiritual service to God and to other people
Robin's wartime task -- Service, service that brings God much joy

The mood of this book is joyful and gently reverent. Robin's story is one of woundedness and redemption. The illustrations greatly further this story's themes. A short, worthwile read, best given to late elementary or early junior high students, and especially best for adults. The young ones may not pick up on the greater themes, but the dignity and respect communicated in this book are well worth their time.

Without telling you the entire story word for word, the book is about a young boy named, Robin who embarks upon various adventures due to the fact that his father is fighting in a war, and his mother has gone to serve the queen.

The book moves slow in the begining because the author details how Robin spends his life in the Monosary with Brother Luke. However, the book moves into an interesting adventure when John-go-in-the-wynd comes into the scene.

The language of the book may not be easy for younger people to understand. It's written in old english. I feel the author may have done this because she is trying to give the reader the effect that the story takes place in medieval times.

I personally liked the story, but it may not be a story everyone will enjoy. You have to be patient enough to get through the tedious parts to enjoy the story. I actually rate this book 3.5 stars, but since there are no (halves), I had to put 4 stars on the review.

Robin is the main character and he has an illness so he can't walk. Robin's mother is a Queen and Robin is far away from her. Robin is weak and needs to get his strength back so he whittles and goes to the pool with his brother to swim. In his spare time Robin enjoys carving, and made a harp to play for his mom when he returns to her.

Ever since Robin can remember he has alway been told what to do, he is to learn the ways of knighthood, as his father did, to serve England's king. Robin's destiny changes in one stroke, he loses the use of his legs. he then builds crutches, makes a harp, and learns to swim. Robin then tries to serve as a knight as he was supposed to do before he loses the use of his legs. The three main characters are, Robin, the friar, and John-go-with-the-wind. The boook takes place in England during the middle ages. The author's point of is that even when you are handicapped,you can still be a hero. The thheme is that there is always a door in the wall if you look hard enough, and anyone can become a hero. The flow of this story was a bit slow and hard to keep up with due to the pace the author chose to write this story. The plot was uneasily identified due to the slow pace and the climax and resolutionswere hard to enjoy.

This book was wonderfully written and very encouraging to move past road blocks and learn to live with issues joyfully. However, The Door in the Wall was rather difficult to read for longer periods of time because of the old English. (Thy, thou, art, etc. ). All in all in was a great book.

KatieG<3

This book was great because it was very inspiring.The main character,Robin, can not use his legs and uses crutches instead. Due to the plague all his servants left him. So a friar named Brother Luke takes him into his care. At the end Robin finds the Door in the Wall. The characters seem real when reading it. If you want to know what the Door in the Wall means you will have to read it.

I liked the book because it was adventurous and creative. I liked that his cousin is there to help him. The events that happen are quite exciting. The ending was a surprise. I would for recommend for summer reading.