This book – a Newberry Medal winner – has travelled with me over the years because it offers a real definition of faith.

Set in medieval times, Robin the son of a noble man has grown up understanding his destiny is that of a nobleman and that he must learn the ways of knighthood. But all this changes when Robin becomes ill and suddenly loses the use of his legs. Fearing plague, the servants abandon him and he is taken in by a monk –  Brother Luke who takes him to a hospice where he begins to learn new work skills.

And in among the lessons on life, Brother Luke teaches him patience and strength and tells him to remember:

“Thou hast only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it”

And so as in all good stories when the call to action comes, when the castle of Lindsay falls under attack, it is Robin who cannot mount a horse or ride into battle who saves the town and its people and learns that there is more than one way to serve his King.

I read this book with all three of my boys, snuggled up and happy, turning the pages of the story excited, engaged , willing Robin on to victory.  Happy memories.  But its the message which has stayed with me and carried me through many a long night

“Thou hast only to follow the wall far enough and there will be a door in it”

For isn’t that, I wonder, the perfect definition of faith?