Richard's Reviews > The Squire's Tale

This was fast-paced, humorous and enjoyable. In an attempt to rehabilitate Sir Gawain, it retells some of the stories about him from the point of view of a minor character, his squire Terence (a character invented by the author). Like Arthur himself, Terence was given to foster care from an early age and his parentage is a mystery. He is presented at first as likeable and docile, but not all that quick on the uptake. However, he does have special aptitudes and abilities which appear from the opening chapter, and which are used in the service of others. Gradually he grows into a person of importance, and provides an example of how even the little people who are ignored or overlooked by many can play a crucial role in the lives of those around them.