Reviewed by Kaelin Leen, age 16
Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix by Aminah Mae Safi
During the Third Crusade, a young soldier named Rahma al-Hud follows her older sister Zeena into war over the Holy Land, which is threatened by the false Queen Isabella and the Faranji invaders under Richard the Lionheart. Along their journey to Jerusalem, the sisters are joined by a ragtag collection of fellow travelers who are committed to helping them in their mission to restore peace to the land, no matter what mischief and dangers lie ahead.
Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix by Aminah Mae Safi is such a fun-loving book that while under the genre of historical fiction seems to be more about adventure and friendship. Readers are taken for a ride as they witness the camaraderie and joy of lost spirits coming together for the adventure of their lives. While the circumstances the travelers are under are dire the characters keep a lighthearted atmosphere alive. From a kind Mongolian warrior to an abandoned English chaplain, the friends the sisters make on their journey bring an abundance of joy to the book. Readers get insight into slivers of history from the experiences of people from all different backgrounds during this period. It is also fascinating to read about different worlds colliding when the characters unexpectedly connect in such a sweet way. The willingness of strangers to commit to joining a difficult mission with people they barely know creates a world viewed from a pure, goodhearted lens, despite the atrocities surrounding them.
The self-induced trouble and Robin Hood-inspired thievery they get into in the book is another fun aspect to read about. Although, it is adventurous but without risk because the somewhat over-competence attributed to the combined skill set and warrior status of the the characters waives any concern over the danger they’re in. I always knew they would make it out of the fights and hurdles in their way, which could be disappointing for someone who craves adrenaline and excitement from reading action-packed scenes.
Overall, the book was enjoyable to read, but more toward the end when the pacing speeds up. It would be better suited for someone at a middle school reading level who wants to explore the genre of historical fiction because the writing style is easily digestible. This is a good book that I would recommend. It is not extraordinary by any means, but it is still worth a read.
3.5 stars of 5 stars
Find this book in our catalog: Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix
Catalog Number: YA FIC SAFI,A
352 pages