Howard Pyle (1853 - 1911) was an American illustrator and writer of books for children. In 1900 he founded the Brandywine school of art and illustration. He is best known for his classic The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood and a 4 volume work on King Arthur. The Ruby of Kishmoor tells the adventure of Jonathan Rugg. A mysterious woman masked behind a veil of silver. She gives Jonathan a small ball covered in beautiful markings. The ivory ball is cursed. Jonathan must defend himself against the attacks of several pirates.
