Synopsis
After the death of her father, King Henry VIII, in 1547, thirteen-year-old Elizabeth must endure the political intrigues and dangers of the reigns of her half brother Edward and her half sister Mary before finally becoming Queen of England eleven years later.
VOYA
Set in turbulent sixteenth-century England, this novel is an entertaining tale of intrigue, self-discovery, and royal wrangling. Readers meet the future queen of England, thirteen-year-old Elizabeth Tudor, shortly after the death of her father, Henry VIII. Ever aware of her royal allegiances and duties, Elizabeth disregards her own feelings of loss to comfort her nine-year-old brother, Edward, the new king. As a pawn in the great drama of royal succession, Elizabeth must stay out of trouble and wait for her inevitable turn at the throne. The story ends rather abruptly with her long-awaited coronation, leaving readers wanting. Unlike many works of historical fiction for young adults, Meyers's book offers teens more than just a glimpse at the time period, taking a deeper look at faith, social class divisions, and individuality. All characters are flesh and blood, memorable and true. Elizabeth's half sister, Queen Mary, appears unreasonable and vindictive, but Elizabeth does not condemn her. Rather, she tries to understand this woman who fears her so, and in doing so, comes to terms with her own doubt about her ability to rule. This work has a strong female protagonist who possesses a considerable understanding of her place in society and world history. Regrettably, the book does not spend more time exploring Elizabeth's relationship with Robin Dudley, which formed the basis of the recent Academy Award-winning film of the queen's life, Elizabeth. With its wide appeal, this first-person story is a highly recommended purchase for all public and school libraries. VOYA CODES: 4Q 4P M J S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined asgrades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2001, Harcourt, 224p, Ages 12 to 18. Reviewer: Stefani Koorey SOURCE: VOYA, June 2001 (Vol. 24, No. 2)