The Apple and the Arrow

By Conrad Buff

A boy's secret could endanger his father amidst a brewing revolution.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 2,733 ratings

80 pages· 14,055 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

In 1291, young Walter Tell's life in the Alpine Mountains is upended as his father, William Tell, faces a tyrant's challenge. With a revolution brewing, Walter holds a secret that could endanger his beloved father. As the tension mounts, will Walter's courage and loyalty be enough to protect his family and their freedom? The legendary tale of bravery and defiance unfolds as Walter stands in the marketplace, an apple on his head, while his father's crossbow is aimed at him. Can they outwit the oppressive forces threatening their homeland?

From the publisher

A 1952 Newbery Honor Book The year is 1291, and Walter is the twelve-year-old son of William Tell, the greatest bowman in the land of Uri. Walter lives happily in the remote heights of the Alpine Mountains, caring for his family’s goat herd and practicing his marksmanship in the hopes of making his father proud. But as the end of the year approaches, Walter’s peaceful life is shaken as his country enters a revolution, and Walter must carry a secret that could threaten the life of the father he loves so dearly. More than seven hundred years have passed since the day Walter stood in the marketplace balancing an apple on his head while the Austrian tyrant Gessler commanded Walter’s father, William Tell, to take aim at the apple with his great crossbow. The dramatic tale of William’s arrest and escape and the daring revolt of the Swiss against the Austrians has become a legend around the world.