The High King

Historical Context and Significance

Lloyd Alexander's book, The High King, is the concluding part of The Chronicles of Prydain series, which is considered a classic of children's literature. This series, inspired by Welsh mythology, made a significant contribution to the fantasy genre, especially in the context of literature for young readers. The High King received the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1969, highlighting its literary value and recognition. The story of coming of age and finding one's place in the world presented in the book has influenced subsequent generations of writers and readers, inspiring them to create and read works exploring themes of heroism, friendship, and self-sacrifice. The series also helped popularize Welsh culture and mythology, making them accessible and interesting to a wide audience.