The secret of Avalon

The Secret of Avalon, published by McGraw-Hill in 1965, is a work of historical fiction penned by Marjorie Yourd Hill. The narrative is set against the backdrop of post-Roman Britain, exploring themes of cultural transition and the remnants of Arthurian legend. It emerged during a period when the market for young adult historical fiction was increasingly focused on immersive, atmospheric storytelling that bridged the gap between academic history and mythic fantasy.

The design of this edition reflects the mid-sixties aesthetic for juvenile literature, prioritizing clear, accessible typography and thematic jacket art intended to signal the novel's adventurous tone to library and school readers. While the work remains a niche title within the broader landscape of 20th-century historical fiction, it is noted for Hill's commitment to researching the period, serving as an example of the era's mid-century efforts to bring classical and legendary motifs to a burgeoning youth readership.