Robin Hood and His Merry Men (Illustrated Edition with Glossary)

This is a fun version of Robin Hood for anyone, even though it was written for fifth and sixth grade students, and even has a "Suggestions for Teachers" section. It has 62 hand-drawn illustrations by Milo Winter. Each chapter starts with an illustration. There are 18 full-page drawings, and 21 songs, complete with both music and lyrics.

The story of Robin Hood is a legend. It is probably based on a real person who lived in England in the 12th century and around whom lots of imaginary stories have developed. The story of Robin Hood is set during the time when King Richard 1st was away fighting in the Middle East and his brother, Prince John, ruled England. At that time, England was governed by the king and a small group of wealthy lords who owned most of the land. Many people were very poor – they worked for the lords as farmers and had little freedom of their own. While Prince John ruled England, they were particularly badly treated and exploited. Robin Hood and Maid Marian came from wealthy families near the town of Nottingham. Neither liked what was happening to the people. Robin spoke out against the unfairness of the tax system and became a champion of the poor. In particular, he became an enemy of the Sheriff of Nottingham (the man in charge of the area where Robin Hood lived). He hid in nearby Sherwood Forest to escape from the Sheriff, and robbed the rich and gave the money back to the poor. Many men joined him in his fight against injustice.