Elizabeth I: Red Rose of the House of Tudor, England, 1544

Welcome to the bizarre court of Henry VIII, where even a princess fears losing her head like her mother. Elizabeth hides her tenacious personality from everyone, especially her father. Your 21st-century kid will enjoy Elizabeth's "treasonous thoughts" and glimpse the daily life of a young woman who ascended the throne at 25 and went on to rule her country for 45 years.

Children's Literature

Movies including Mrs. Brown, Shakespeare in Love, and of course, Elizabeth, have brought English history to the masses. Now, a new series of books lets children get close to these powerful monarchs in a unique way. Subtitled Red Rose of the House of Tudor, England, 1544, this book is presented as the secret childhood diary of Princess Elizabeth, daughter of King Henry VIII, who later came to rule England as Queen Elizabeth I. A fan of English history myself, I appreciated recognizing historical fact woven into this fictional diary, from Elizabeth's descriptions of her very religious sister, Princess Mary, to her explanation of her father's many marriages. While kids learn about life in England during Henry VIII's reign, they easily form a bond with Princess Elizabeth, who, like any eleven-year-old, encounters sibling rivalry, completes her homework, and constantly craves for her father's attention and love. This is a great book for any young reader interested in England, princesses, history, books in diary format, or who just want a great read. I can't wait to read the next "Royal Diary!"

Kathryn Lasky is the Newbery Honor-winning and national bestselling author of many books for children and adults. She has created picture books: "Porkenstein", "Sugaring Time", and "Lunch Bunnies"; novels: "Blood Secret", "The Bone wars", "Beyond the Burning Time", and "A Voice of Her Own"; and the bestselling series Guardians of Ga'Hoole. When she's not writing, she and her husband, Christopher Knight, enjoy sailing the world aboard a boat named "Alice". Kathryn Lasky lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Josephine Bailey was born in England and trained in performing arts at the Corona Academy in London. As a child, Josephine appeared in many feature films before going on to become a professional dancer. Returning to her love of acting has led to her recent performances for Hanna Barbera, Walt Disney and Nickleodeon.