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Izar, The Amesbury Archer: A Pioneer Metal Smith
A Skeleton that tells a story!Amesbury, just two miles from Stonehenge, is regarded as one of the oldest towns in Britain, with evidence of habitation for over 5000 years.In 2002, a male skeleton was discovered there. It had lain undisturbed for almost that length of time.Archaeological research showed that the man was born almost a thousand miles from where he died. He had lived in the period when the Stone Age was ending and the age of metal was dawning. The numerous items buried with him give tantalising clues about his way of life. In addition to archery equipment, there was evidence that he had been a pioneer metal worker.
This is the story of how he could have lived and died.
This is the story of how he could have lived and died.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2021
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1 person want to read
About the author
Michael E. Wills
17 books60 followersI was born on the Isle of Wight and after attending school there, I trained to be a teacher. I worked for two years in a secondary school in Kent before re-training to teach English as a Foreign Language. After a career in education both in UK and in Europe, I now have time to write about things which fascinate me, and foremost among my many interests is history. I like to tell stories about ordinary people who get caught up in historical events and thereby portray the lives of characters both real and fictional.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 15, 2021
This is the story of a young man’s life during a transitional period of history. People were embracing new technologies and ideologies as they moved from the Neolithic period into the Early Bronze period. As a young boy, Izar was a hunter and an archer, but when he falls off the edge of a cliff, his life and his destiny change.
In May of 2002, the Wessex Archaeology staff found the grave of a man who would come to be known as the Amesbury Archer, and this discovery becomes the foundation for Wills’ story. Wills takes his readers back to the beginning of the Bronze age, where he introduces us to Izar, a young boy whose life could have been the life of the man whose remains were found in Wiltshire, England. Using the information from the Amesbury Archer’s bones and the items found with them, Willis transforms Izar’s story into a tale that brings the archer back from the grave. The result is a book that readers will not want to put down.
What worked well throughout Mr Wills’ book is how the author weaves the archaeological discoveries into a story of a plausible life of the man whose skeleton was one of the most valuable Bronze age discoveries in Great Britain. Readers experience Izar’s life from the day he becomes a disabled young boy to him becoming a respected metal smith. Wills masterfully helps readers understand the value of Izar’s progressive mindset and his openness to new ideas, which in turn helps Izar grow as a person and helps the people of his world transition from one age to the next. The author skillfully intertwines the rewards and consequences of Izar’s choices when the archer is presented with challenges. It is through these rewards and challenges that we discover Izar’s strength and endurance. It is through his story that we see him as a revered man who was seen as a symbol of faith and hope.
Although some younger readers of young adult fiction (YA) would embrace the book, the story is a better fit for middle school children ages 8 – 12. This story would fit very well in a class as part of an archaeology unit focused on the Early Bronze Age. If I were teaching the unit for an 11 – 12-year-old class, the novel would be required reading for the students, whereas if I were teaching a unit for an 8–9-year-old-class, it would be a book that I would read to them.
As I read this novel there were so many times that I had to stop to reflect on the archer’s journey. I found myself comparing the fears of the unknown experienced by the people in Izar’s life to the fears of the unknown that people have today. I could feel Izar’s pain when he suffered loss, just as many today suffer the pain of loss. I could also feel the wonder and excitement of the people in his life when Izar successfully masters a new technology, just as many in today’s world are awed by the new technologies of our time. This is a story that I recommend be included as part of a unit of study for middle school age students or as a book parents or guardians could read with their children. This story not only brings history to life, but his story creates an awareness of present, and inspires others to embrace visions of the future.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
In May of 2002, the Wessex Archaeology staff found the grave of a man who would come to be known as the Amesbury Archer, and this discovery becomes the foundation for Wills’ story. Wills takes his readers back to the beginning of the Bronze age, where he introduces us to Izar, a young boy whose life could have been the life of the man whose remains were found in Wiltshire, England. Using the information from the Amesbury Archer’s bones and the items found with them, Willis transforms Izar’s story into a tale that brings the archer back from the grave. The result is a book that readers will not want to put down.
What worked well throughout Mr Wills’ book is how the author weaves the archaeological discoveries into a story of a plausible life of the man whose skeleton was one of the most valuable Bronze age discoveries in Great Britain. Readers experience Izar’s life from the day he becomes a disabled young boy to him becoming a respected metal smith. Wills masterfully helps readers understand the value of Izar’s progressive mindset and his openness to new ideas, which in turn helps Izar grow as a person and helps the people of his world transition from one age to the next. The author skillfully intertwines the rewards and consequences of Izar’s choices when the archer is presented with challenges. It is through these rewards and challenges that we discover Izar’s strength and endurance. It is through his story that we see him as a revered man who was seen as a symbol of faith and hope.
Although some younger readers of young adult fiction (YA) would embrace the book, the story is a better fit for middle school children ages 8 – 12. This story would fit very well in a class as part of an archaeology unit focused on the Early Bronze Age. If I were teaching the unit for an 11 – 12-year-old class, the novel would be required reading for the students, whereas if I were teaching a unit for an 8–9-year-old-class, it would be a book that I would read to them.
As I read this novel there were so many times that I had to stop to reflect on the archer’s journey. I found myself comparing the fears of the unknown experienced by the people in Izar’s life to the fears of the unknown that people have today. I could feel Izar’s pain when he suffered loss, just as many today suffer the pain of loss. I could also feel the wonder and excitement of the people in his life when Izar successfully masters a new technology, just as many in today’s world are awed by the new technologies of our time. This is a story that I recommend be included as part of a unit of study for middle school age students or as a book parents or guardians could read with their children. This story not only brings history to life, but his story creates an awareness of present, and inspires others to embrace visions of the future.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
February 20, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Izar, The Amesbury Archer is an accessible fictionalized narrative of the life of an early bronze age metalworker based on extant archaeological evidence, written by Michael E. Wills. Released 21st June 2021, it's 250 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats.
This is a very well imagined story based on archaeological evidence discovered in a burial cache in 2002 in Amesbury, near Stonehenge which dates from circa 2300 B.C.E. The author writes a compelling and fascinating story about the possible life and history of the man he calls Izar. Tests performed on the tooth enamel of the actual skeleton support an origin in the Alps, and the author skillfully weaves a story which explains the physical characteristics (deformed and missing knee, tooth enamel showing a birthplace and early childhood in central European Alpine region, and the artifacts he was buried with) alongside an entertaining and plausible story.
The language is simple and direct and would be appropriate for older middle grade kids through teenagers. This would make a superlative selection for public or school library acquisition, library reading groups or classroom reading circles, as well as the home library. Although important to remember that it's a fiction account, it does a very good job of explaining the physical realities of the gravesite, skeleton, and grave goods found in 2002. The book also includes a number of photographs and maps including a photo recreation of the burial site with artifacts in situ.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Izar, The Amesbury Archer is an accessible fictionalized narrative of the life of an early bronze age metalworker based on extant archaeological evidence, written by Michael E. Wills. Released 21st June 2021, it's 250 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats.
This is a very well imagined story based on archaeological evidence discovered in a burial cache in 2002 in Amesbury, near Stonehenge which dates from circa 2300 B.C.E. The author writes a compelling and fascinating story about the possible life and history of the man he calls Izar. Tests performed on the tooth enamel of the actual skeleton support an origin in the Alps, and the author skillfully weaves a story which explains the physical characteristics (deformed and missing knee, tooth enamel showing a birthplace and early childhood in central European Alpine region, and the artifacts he was buried with) alongside an entertaining and plausible story.
The language is simple and direct and would be appropriate for older middle grade kids through teenagers. This would make a superlative selection for public or school library acquisition, library reading groups or classroom reading circles, as well as the home library. Although important to remember that it's a fiction account, it does a very good job of explaining the physical realities of the gravesite, skeleton, and grave goods found in 2002. The book also includes a number of photographs and maps including a photo recreation of the burial site with artifacts in situ.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
June 18, 2021
“Before I leave may I see the work you do here with the copper?” asked the visitors’ spokesman.
The leader hesitated for a moment, considering the request and then said, “Izar will show you what he makes, but he will not tell you of the way it is done, for he alone knows this. He has it as a gift from the Sun God.”
The year that Izar has a dot on the finger of each hand, with four of his fingers showing two dots, is the one when his life changes forever. Separated from his father and brother by fog, and with dogs from an unfriendly tribe on his heels, Izar’s path takes a new turn when he tumbles from a cliff and lands heavily at the bottom.
When the tribe finds him, the tribe’s leader, Rab, and his woman, Stin, decide to try to heal Izar’s injuries. Stin must remove the broken pieces of bone from Izar’s leg if the boy is to have any hope of surviving, but the break and the procedure leave Izar crippled, and what use is a cripple to a tribe? However, Izar grew up making arrows, and his carving skills are quickly noticed by Rab. With the tribe’s secrets about melting the stone in need of a new process to mould the new metal, Izar may be able to earn his keep and save his own life.
Izar, The Amesbury Archer: A Pioneer Metal Worker by Michael E Wills is a novel that is as rich in historical detail as it is in story.
Izar is an incredibly brave character, who not only has to contend with the pain and difficulties of breaking and subsequently losing his kneecap but also of finding a way to show his worth to the tribe that took him in. If he was no use to them, he was simply an idle mouth, taking their food and giving nothing in return. As he starts his healing process, he is given the task of looking after the very same dogs that scared him into falling off the cliff. While the dogs may start to regard him as a friend, not a foe, the other members of the tribe are not as easily persuaded. Being unable to walk properly, Izar quickly becomes the subject of amusement and bullying from Rab’s sons, who see him as expendable and a threat to their tribe.
The idea that the injured or physically disabled were useless is explored in great detail in this novel. Alongside Izar, there is a young boy in the tribe, known as Lin, who has an arm he cannot use. This means that, unlike the other children in the tribe, he cannot work and he is, therefore, treated as inferior. Unfortunately, despite the friendship Lin forms with Izar, he does not have the unique skill that Izar does to carve objects and create arrowheads, which means that he also has no way of earning his keep. The way that both Izar and Lin are treated is appalling. In the world that Wills has depicted, it is imperative that everyone can pull their own weight. If they cannot, then they are nothing more than a burden.
The Stone Age, or indeed, the start of the Bronze Age, was a time very different from the modern-day. Human lives were seemingly worthless, and if a person was a threat or could no longer be an active participant of the tribe, then they faced either leaving the safety of the tribe, or execution. Izar is very aware of this, and he constantly attempts to demonstrate how important and how useful he is to those around him. However, as Izar grows older, the need for respect and to be necessary to others becomes not so much about survival but instead he basks in his accomplishments. Izar can create something that many tribes do not have—copper.
Izar’s ability to not only extract copper from the rocks, but also to mould it into knives, takes him on a great journey—one that began with him, once again, running for his life, and transforms into a trip across the water, far from his home, towards the Duran tribe. The differences between the tribes Izar is used to and the Duran tribe are stark. The Duran tribe, and the Duran Master’s chief warrior, Radan, are not the kind of tribe to peacefully accept shelter and a meal, but a people who took what they wanted with little care for the consequences of those who found themselves in their path. Izar is disgusted when Radan shows him around this new home and discovers that the tribe uses slave children to dig holes for their construction, and sacrifice young children to the spirit of the sun. Nevertheless, the tribe is desperate for Izar’s copper creations to further develop their status and homes, and Izar quickly finds his place among the strange new tribe.
The historical detail in this novel has to be commended. It is clear that Wills has put hours of research into making this novel as historically accurate as possible, and that is a feat in itself with the lack of historical resources for the era. This book is based on the life of a man found in an early Bronze Age grave, exploring what his life may have been like and the reasons for the objects in the grave. The writing of this novel required the use of logic and imagination, as well as a passion for the era, to weave together the story of Izar, and how his life played out, and this has been accomplished exceptionally well.
Izar, The Amesbury Archer: A Pioneer Metal Worker by Michael E Wills is a novel that not only explores the processes of working metal in the early Bronze Age and the uses that different tribes would have had for copper, but it is also an intensely enthralling tale. Izar’s life has been moulded around what little is known about him, and the result is a novel full of intense detail with a gripping narrative.
I Highly Recommend
Review by Ellie Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
January 20, 2025
While visiting Salisbury, I had the unique opportunity to delve into the period and stories surrounding Stonehenge and the fascinating archaeology of the area. Among the many things that piqued my curiosity was the novel Izar, The Amesbury Archer by Michael E. Wills, inspired by the discovery of the Amesbury Archer—an enigmatic figure from the Early Bronze Age buried near Stonehenge. This encounter with the book felt serendipitous, and at the time, my enthusiasm for the region’s history led me to immerse myself in its pages.
The novel introduces us to Izar, a character based on the Amesbury Archer, and attempts to reconstruct his life as a skilled archer and pioneer metalworker who makes his way from the Swiss Alps to southern England. The premise is undeniably intriguing: a story of migration, survival, and technological advancement during one of the most captivating periods in prehistory. The book’s setting and historical backdrop align beautifully with the archaeological discoveries that first brought this Bronze Age figure to light.
However, with the passage of time and after reflecting more critically, my overall impression of the novel has shifted. While the effort to reconstruct and fictionalise this historical figure’s life deserves recognition, the book falls short in delivering the depth and engagement I was hoping for.
The characters, particularly Izar himself, lack the multidimensionality needed to make them truly compelling. His journey, while ambitious in scope, often feels superficial, with limited exploration of his internal struggles or relationships that could have brought him to life. For a story based on such a pivotal archaeological find, the lack of emotional connection to the protagonist left me somewhat detached.
Moreover, the plot—though built on a solid foundation of historical imagination—does not sustain enough tension or intrigue to fully capture the reader’s attention. While there are moments of interest and some insightful glimpses into the challenges of Bronze Age life, the storytelling lacks the momentum to keep one truly engaged. The narrative sometimes feels like a series of events strung together rather than a cohesive and dynamic story arc.
That being said, the book does succeed in shedding light on the life and times of the Amesbury Archer in a way that’s accessible to a general audience. For readers new to this period or curious about the intersection of archaeology and fiction, it may serve as a gentle introduction. However, for those seeking a richer exploration of character or a more gripping tale, Izar, The Amesbury Archer might leave something to be desired.
In the end, I would rate this book a 2 out of 5. It’s a nice attempt at bringing history to life but ultimately lacks the depth and narrative strength to make it a standout piece of historical fiction. While it resonated with me during my visit to Salisbury, largely due to the context of my surroundings, it does not hold up as a deeply engaging or memorable read. Still, I commend the author’s effort in attempting to bring this fascinating historical figure to the page and encourage readers with an interest in Stonehenge or Bronze Age Britain to give it a try, with tempered expectations.
The novel introduces us to Izar, a character based on the Amesbury Archer, and attempts to reconstruct his life as a skilled archer and pioneer metalworker who makes his way from the Swiss Alps to southern England. The premise is undeniably intriguing: a story of migration, survival, and technological advancement during one of the most captivating periods in prehistory. The book’s setting and historical backdrop align beautifully with the archaeological discoveries that first brought this Bronze Age figure to light.
However, with the passage of time and after reflecting more critically, my overall impression of the novel has shifted. While the effort to reconstruct and fictionalise this historical figure’s life deserves recognition, the book falls short in delivering the depth and engagement I was hoping for.
The characters, particularly Izar himself, lack the multidimensionality needed to make them truly compelling. His journey, while ambitious in scope, often feels superficial, with limited exploration of his internal struggles or relationships that could have brought him to life. For a story based on such a pivotal archaeological find, the lack of emotional connection to the protagonist left me somewhat detached.
Moreover, the plot—though built on a solid foundation of historical imagination—does not sustain enough tension or intrigue to fully capture the reader’s attention. While there are moments of interest and some insightful glimpses into the challenges of Bronze Age life, the storytelling lacks the momentum to keep one truly engaged. The narrative sometimes feels like a series of events strung together rather than a cohesive and dynamic story arc.
That being said, the book does succeed in shedding light on the life and times of the Amesbury Archer in a way that’s accessible to a general audience. For readers new to this period or curious about the intersection of archaeology and fiction, it may serve as a gentle introduction. However, for those seeking a richer exploration of character or a more gripping tale, Izar, The Amesbury Archer might leave something to be desired.
In the end, I would rate this book a 2 out of 5. It’s a nice attempt at bringing history to life but ultimately lacks the depth and narrative strength to make it a standout piece of historical fiction. While it resonated with me during my visit to Salisbury, largely due to the context of my surroundings, it does not hold up as a deeply engaging or memorable read. Still, I commend the author’s effort in attempting to bring this fascinating historical figure to the page and encourage readers with an interest in Stonehenge or Bronze Age Britain to give it a try, with tempered expectations.
July 9, 2021
In 2002 the remains of a Bronze Age male skeleton was discovered in Amesbury, a small town just two miles from Stonehenge. The high status of the burial and the richness of the grave goods make this one of the most significant Bronze Age burials to be found, however, what was more surprising was that the man had been born over 1000 miles from where he was buried. Izar, the Amesbury Archer is the fictionalised story of how this man from around 2,300 BC could have ended his life near to the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge.
We wrongly assume sometimes that our ancient ancestors didn’t travel far from the places they were born but this cleverly told story of Izar’s momentous journey from his homeland shows just how adventurous our ancestors were and how their lives, so often filled with danger, also gave them the opportunity to advance their experiences in ways never before imagined.
Izar was an archer but also a skilled metal worker in a time when metalworking was still largely unknown. The intricate detail in which the author discusses the process of extracting copper ore is done in a really interesting way, bringing to life the amazement of our early ancestors in being able to forge metal into something workable and highly prized.
Making sense of history, putting the lives of our early ancestors into perspective is what this author does best. In giving us the life of Izar the Archer he has made the anonymous skeleton into a living, breathing person whose hopes and fears were cleverly brought into the story alongside the highly prized skill of making metal at the very start of the Bronze Age.
Aimed at the YA audience the story doesn’t shy away from some of the more unpleasant aspects of the hardships of life in 2300 BC but that’s what makes history come alive and the author is very good at making history believable and exciting for a younger audience. However, it’s not just young readers who will find much to learn and enjoy, I also learned new things about living and working in the early Bronze Age.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading of Izar’s journey and as I finished the book I immediately went online to find out more about the real Amesbury Archer.
We wrongly assume sometimes that our ancient ancestors didn’t travel far from the places they were born but this cleverly told story of Izar’s momentous journey from his homeland shows just how adventurous our ancestors were and how their lives, so often filled with danger, also gave them the opportunity to advance their experiences in ways never before imagined.
Izar was an archer but also a skilled metal worker in a time when metalworking was still largely unknown. The intricate detail in which the author discusses the process of extracting copper ore is done in a really interesting way, bringing to life the amazement of our early ancestors in being able to forge metal into something workable and highly prized.
Making sense of history, putting the lives of our early ancestors into perspective is what this author does best. In giving us the life of Izar the Archer he has made the anonymous skeleton into a living, breathing person whose hopes and fears were cleverly brought into the story alongside the highly prized skill of making metal at the very start of the Bronze Age.
Aimed at the YA audience the story doesn’t shy away from some of the more unpleasant aspects of the hardships of life in 2300 BC but that’s what makes history come alive and the author is very good at making history believable and exciting for a younger audience. However, it’s not just young readers who will find much to learn and enjoy, I also learned new things about living and working in the early Bronze Age.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading of Izar’s journey and as I finished the book I immediately went online to find out more about the real Amesbury Archer.
June 13, 2021
THE WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS
9th June 2020
TITLE: Izar, The Amesbury Archer: A Pioneer Metal Smith
AUTHOR: Michael E Wills
Star Rating: 4
‘The fascinating story of a man who lived thousands of years ago. Highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I must begin by saying that, nowadays, I spend a lot of my time enjoying modern thrillers; oh, and the odd YS novel full of weeping teenagers who finally find love and then discover the hot boy’s a werewolf and wants to devour them. But I don't spend much time curled up with an historical novel based on a skeleton discovered not far from Stonehenge and thought to be thousands of years old. But, here I am, laptop open, enjoying Michael E Wills’ superbly plotted story of that very man; how he lived, what he fought for, and the problems he battled to overcome.
This is a very atmospheric story, filled with interesting characters and plenty of plot twists. The author seems to know his historical setting well and wants the reader, like the characters, to be immersed in it. But, thankfully, not overly so; it’s never tedious, the author keeping a good balance between descriptive prose, character development and speech which is very much in keeping with the time of the story. I must also comment on the ending; it was very sad - although, in a way, it had to be - but it did bring the story to a satisfying end. There's also a list of ‘Items in the Grave’ which I thought was interesting and helped me to understand what sparked this story.
So, who's this book for? Well, I think you if you have an interest in how the world progressed from Stone Age to the age of metal, you will find this of interest. Also, if you enjoy historical novels with a twisting plot and large than life characters, you'll get a kick out of reading this. I have a hobby; I love doing up old cars and bringing them back to life. In a way, this is what this author's done with this character. He's brought him back to life, allowing him to live that little bit longer.
A job well done!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
9th June 2020
TITLE: Izar, The Amesbury Archer: A Pioneer Metal Smith
AUTHOR: Michael E Wills
Star Rating: 4
‘The fascinating story of a man who lived thousands of years ago. Highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I must begin by saying that, nowadays, I spend a lot of my time enjoying modern thrillers; oh, and the odd YS novel full of weeping teenagers who finally find love and then discover the hot boy’s a werewolf and wants to devour them. But I don't spend much time curled up with an historical novel based on a skeleton discovered not far from Stonehenge and thought to be thousands of years old. But, here I am, laptop open, enjoying Michael E Wills’ superbly plotted story of that very man; how he lived, what he fought for, and the problems he battled to overcome.
This is a very atmospheric story, filled with interesting characters and plenty of plot twists. The author seems to know his historical setting well and wants the reader, like the characters, to be immersed in it. But, thankfully, not overly so; it’s never tedious, the author keeping a good balance between descriptive prose, character development and speech which is very much in keeping with the time of the story. I must also comment on the ending; it was very sad - although, in a way, it had to be - but it did bring the story to a satisfying end. There's also a list of ‘Items in the Grave’ which I thought was interesting and helped me to understand what sparked this story.
So, who's this book for? Well, I think you if you have an interest in how the world progressed from Stone Age to the age of metal, you will find this of interest. Also, if you enjoy historical novels with a twisting plot and large than life characters, you'll get a kick out of reading this. I have a hobby; I love doing up old cars and bringing them back to life. In a way, this is what this author's done with this character. He's brought him back to life, allowing him to live that little bit longer.
A job well done!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
April 2, 2026
This book immediately caught my attention with its fascinating premise a physically disabled man traveling nearly a thousand miles from the Swiss Alps to the area around Stonehenge over 4,500 years ago. I’m especially intrigued by how the author blends real archaeological discoveries with imaginative storytelling to reconstruct his life. The focus on early metallurgy and a time of major human innovation makes this even more appealing. Definitely adding this to my reading list, and I’m also curious to experience it as an audiobook.
April 2, 2026
The description of this book really stands out to me it feels like a blend of history, mystery, and human resilience. The idea of following the life of someone from such a distant past, using clues from burial artifacts and remains, is incredibly interesting. I’m especially curious about how the story will portray the shift from stone to metal and what that meant for people at the time. Adding this to my list and considering the audiobook for a more immersive experience.
April 2, 2026
The description alone makes this book feel like a deep dive into a pivotal moment in human history. I’m particularly interested in the transition from stone to metal and how that shaped people’s lives. The mystery surrounding the Archer’s journey and abilities adds a compelling narrative hook. Definitely adding this to my list and looking forward to exploring both the story and its historical context.
April 6, 2026
This book really piqued my curiosity because it combines a real archaeological discovery with a deeply human story. The idea of tracing the life of someone who lived 4,500 years ago using physical evidence is fascinating on its own, but the added mystery of his long journey makes it even more compelling. I’m especially interested in how the author explores his possible role as both an archer and an early metalworker.
April 6, 2026
This sounds like a compelling mix of fact and fiction that explores one of the most fascinating periods in human history. The idea of following the life of someone connected to Stonehenge during its construction is already intriguing, but adding the elements of disability and innovation makes it even more powerful. I’m really looking forward to reading this and seeing how the story unfolds.
April 6, 2026
This book sounds like it offers a unique perspective on ancient history by focusing on an individual rather than just events. I’m intrigued by how the author might portray his challenges, skills, and journey across such a vast distance. The combination of real evidence and storytelling makes this especially appealing. I’ll be adding this to my list and possibly checking out the audiobook as well.
April 7, 2026
I love books that explore lesser known historical figures, and this one sounds particularly intriguing. The Amesbury Archer’s journey raises so many questions about life, movement, and knowledge in ancient times. I’m interested in seeing how the author pieces together his story from the available evidence.
April 7, 2026
There’s something about this story that feels both educational and emotional at the same time. The idea of imagining the life of someone who lived thousands of years ago, especially someone with physical challenges, makes it feel very human and relatable. I’m also interested in how the audiobook version might bring that experience to life.
January 2, 2022
An interesting look story that chronicles what life might have been like for a boy living thorough the changes brought on by the beginning of the Bronze Age. Wills weaves a well-imagined tale based on the bones (and grave) of a man buried near Stonehenge.
March 29, 2026
A fascinating historical concept. Our readers at Read-Aloud SG Book Club really enjoyed imagining life during such an early period of human history.
March 29, 2026
This was a unique and thought-provoking read for Read-Aloud SG Book Club. The blend of archaeology and storytelling sparked great discussion.
March 29, 2026
Read-Aloud SG Book Club featured this book and it led to a very engaging conversation about early human innovation and movement.
March 29, 2026
A very interesting interpretation of a real archaeological discovery. Our readers at Read-Aloud SG Book Club appreciated the creativity behind the story.
March 29, 2026
This book brought a distant past to life for our group at Read-Aloud SG Book Club. A truly different reading experience.
March 29, 2026
We selected this at Read-Aloud SG Book Club and members found the concept both intriguing and imaginative.
March 29, 2026
A thoughtful historical narrative. Read-Aloud SG Book Club readers enjoyed exploring the transition from the Stone Age to the Metal Age.
March 29, 2026
This sparked a lot of curiosity in Read-Aloud SG Book Club. The idea of reconstructing a life from skeletal remains is compelling.
March 29, 2026
A unique story that stands out. Our Read-Aloud SG Book Club members appreciated the connection between real history and fiction.
March 29, 2026
Read-Aloud SG Book Club readers found this both educational and imaginative. It led to meaningful discussion.
March 29, 2026
An engaging concept and an interesting perspective on early human life. Well received by our group at Read-Aloud SG Book Club.
March 29, 2026
We enjoyed discussing this at Read-Aloud SG Book Club. It offers a creative look at ancient history.
November 15, 2022
During the Stone Age, Izar must prove his worth in an unforgiving landscape after an accident limits the use of his knee. He becomes skilled in creating copper knives, and many headmen would kill for such craftsmanship. Thus begins Izar’s journey from clan to clan as he struggles to find safety and a home.
While this novel is geared for young adults, Izar never comes across as youthful. Granted, his life is hanging on a balance, as those with disabilities rarely survive long. Thus, he grows up fast. The tension is thick throughout the storyline. However, younger readers may struggle to connect. The only characters of the target age group either die or are the subjects of discussions about child sacrifice. Without a relatable narrator, I worry this novel will struggle with its market appeal. Where it will attract is with its disabled main character who learns and grows and travels (with help). The novel embraces what it means to be different in an unforgiving setting. Bravo!
Everything seemed well edited until page 138 when it suddenly jumped to page 145. Five pages later, pages 139-144 appeared. Another critical eye would be welcomed to finalize the book to its most professional state.
Story-wise, Izar traverses a vast landscape, by land and sea. The settings are vibrant. Wills’s research shines in the meticulous details surrounding Izar’s craft, which continues to develop throughout the novel and will engage readers. A captivating tale of a boy-turned-man using his skills to survive in ancient times.
Review originally posed via the Historical Novel Society at: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
While this novel is geared for young adults, Izar never comes across as youthful. Granted, his life is hanging on a balance, as those with disabilities rarely survive long. Thus, he grows up fast. The tension is thick throughout the storyline. However, younger readers may struggle to connect. The only characters of the target age group either die or are the subjects of discussions about child sacrifice. Without a relatable narrator, I worry this novel will struggle with its market appeal. Where it will attract is with its disabled main character who learns and grows and travels (with help). The novel embraces what it means to be different in an unforgiving setting. Bravo!
Everything seemed well edited until page 138 when it suddenly jumped to page 145. Five pages later, pages 139-144 appeared. Another critical eye would be welcomed to finalize the book to its most professional state.
Story-wise, Izar traverses a vast landscape, by land and sea. The settings are vibrant. Wills’s research shines in the meticulous details surrounding Izar’s craft, which continues to develop throughout the novel and will engage readers. A captivating tale of a boy-turned-man using his skills to survive in ancient times.
Review originally posed via the Historical Novel Society at: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
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