Anna Boleyn- Her Side Of The Story, 02 May 2008
In this book Anne Boleyn tells of her awful Childhood, were she was ignored because everyone favoured her sister, she talks of starting off so low as she was barely recognised by anyone, [as she was known as Mary Boleyn's Sister]gradually clawing her way to the top to be the Kings wife, but she was so hated that in the end Henry pressed charges against her so he could be rid of her. Find out the rest why she was the doomed Queen in the book...

EXCELLENT! Maybe my favourite Carolyn Meyer yet, 20 Nov 2005
Well, we all know the story of Anne Boleyn, 2nd wife of Henry VIII. I've read several adult books of Anne's life, with hard descriptions and terrible mistakes. But Meyer's version of this Boleyn novel is GREAT! Children - boys and girls - can read this book with utter ease and read it within days. It tells the story of ill-favoured, hated Anne Boleyn, youngest daughter of Thomas Boleyn. Meyer puts Anne's birth at 1507, starting the story in 1520 when Anne was supposedly 13. I believe Anne was born in 1501 or 1502 as Meyer suggested in Beware Princess Elizabeth and Mary Bloody Mary, but this hardly mattered. It tells Anne's life, in 1st person, from her courtship and childhood until her dramatic beheading in 1536, still only 28. A fabulous novel - for anyone who doesn't know about Anne Boleyn, READ THIS BOOK!!! It's only 230 pages and an EXCELLENT read, I promise you. Don't pick up those hard monotonous adult books about Anne - this one is FAR BETTER.

The Truth, 03 May 2004
Here, contained in this book, is the story of Anne Boleyn. In our society, nobody knows what to think of this woman. This book brings it out. Anne was a misfigured girl who wanted power. She worked her way into the eyes of King Henry, and caused him to divorce his wife and virtually disown his only daughter so that he could have her. It tells how she did it, what resulted. She became a hated person. The people considered her a liar and a witch. This book tells how she fell out of favor with the King and in the end lost her life. I highly recommend this book.

Anna Boleyn- Her Side Of The Story, 02 May 2008
In this book Anne Boleyn tells of her awful Childhood, were she was ignored because everyone favoured her sister, she talks of starting off so low as she was barely recognised by anyone, [as she was known as Mary Boleyn's Sister]gradually clawing her way to the top to be the Kings wife, but she was so hated that in the end Henry pressed charges against her so he could be rid of her. Find out the rest why she was the doomed Queen in the book...

EXCELLENT! Maybe my favourite Carolyn Meyer yet, 20 Nov 2005
Well, we all know the story of Anne Boleyn, 2nd wife of Henry VIII. I've read several adult books of Anne's life, with hard descriptions and terrible mistakes. But Meyer's version of this Boleyn novel is GREAT! Children - boys and girls - can read this book with utter ease and read it within days. It tells the story of ill-favoured, hated Anne Boleyn, youngest daughter of Thomas Boleyn. Meyer puts Anne's birth at 1507, starting the story in 1520 when Anne was supposedly 13. I believe Anne was born in 1501 or 1502 as Meyer suggested in Beware Princess Elizabeth and Mary Bloody Mary, but this hardly mattered. It tells Anne's life, in 1st person, from her courtship and childhood until her dramatic beheading in 1536, still only 28. A fabulous novel - for anyone who doesn't know about Anne Boleyn, READ THIS BOOK!!! It's only 230 pages and an EXCELLENT read, I promise you. Don't pick up those hard monotonous adult books about Anne - this one is FAR BETTER.

The Truth, 03 May 2004
Here, contained in this book, is the story of Anne Boleyn. In our society, nobody knows what to think of this woman. This book brings it out. Anne was a misfigured girl who wanted power. She worked her way into the eyes of King Henry, and caused him to divorce his wife and virtually disown his only daughter so that he could have her. It tells how she did it, what resulted. She became a hated person. The people considered her a liar and a witch. This book tells how she fell out of favor with the King and in the end lost her life. I highly recommend this book.

Great book, fantastic location, 30 Oct 2007
I'm very intrested in history dating from the Roman period and i'm seriously considering history for GCSE. This book is one of the best i've ever read it's informative and very addictive. My Grandad lives near Bradgate park where Lady Jane grew up. I've walked round the ruins so many times wondereing what it looked like in it's glory days. After reading this book i could really imagine it. Bradgate is a Beautiful place and a perfect place to grow up in, the deer and the park around it is spectacular. I hope other people find this book interesting.

Excellent teen novel about Lady Jane Grey., 20 Jan 2005
Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for nine days at the age of fifteen before being executed for treason, narrates her story beginning at age nine. Unloved by her parents, young Jane had an unhappy and lonely childhood. Sent to court at age nine, she finally gained happiness as a maid of honor to Queen Katharine, wife of King Henry VIII. Even after the king dies, Jane remains a member of Katharine's household, but even that happiness is lost when Katharine dies in childbirth after remarrying. Returning home, Jane must once again endure her parents' cruelty, as they scheme to arrange a marriage for her that will bring them wealth and power. But when the young King Edward, Jane's beloved cousin, dies, Jane is unprepared for how far they will go. Staunch Protestants, Jane's parents are determined that Edward's Catholic half-sister Mary will not become queen -- and so they force their daughter to accept the crown of England in a plot that is doomed to failure.

This was an excellent historical novel for teens that tells the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey. I was really looking forward to reading this book, because I love historical novels about royalty, and Ann Rinaldi is one of my favorite authors. I am happy to say I am not disappointed at all. Ann Rinaldi brings Jane to life as an intelligent girl, observant and wise beyond her years, who against her will became a pawn in a power struggle she wanted no part in. This makes the inevitably sad ending even more tragic. Teen readers who are interested in historical fiction about royalty should definitely read this book.

Anna Boleyn- Her Side Of The Story, 02 May 2008
In this book Anne Boleyn tells of her awful Childhood, were she was ignored because everyone favoured her sister, she talks of starting off so low as she was barely recognised by anyone, [as she was known as Mary Boleyn's Sister]gradually clawing her way to the top to be the Kings wife, but she was so hated that in the end Henry pressed charges against her so he could be rid of her. Find out the rest why she was the doomed Queen in the book...

EXCELLENT! Maybe my favourite Carolyn Meyer yet, 20 Nov 2005
Well, we all know the story of Anne Boleyn, 2nd wife of Henry VIII. I've read several adult books of Anne's life, with hard descriptions and terrible mistakes. But Meyer's version of this Boleyn novel is GREAT! Children - boys and girls - can read this book with utter ease and read it within days. It tells the story of ill-favoured, hated Anne Boleyn, youngest daughter of Thomas Boleyn. Meyer puts Anne's birth at 1507, starting the story in 1520 when Anne was supposedly 13. I believe Anne was born in 1501 or 1502 as Meyer suggested in Beware Princess Elizabeth and Mary Bloody Mary, but this hardly mattered. It tells Anne's life, in 1st person, from her courtship and childhood until her dramatic beheading in 1536, still only 28. A fabulous novel - for anyone who doesn't know about Anne Boleyn, READ THIS BOOK!!! It's only 230 pages and an EXCELLENT read, I promise you. Don't pick up those hard monotonous adult books about Anne - this one is FAR BETTER.

The Truth, 03 May 2004
Here, contained in this book, is the story of Anne Boleyn. In our society, nobody knows what to think of this woman. This book brings it out. Anne was a misfigured girl who wanted power. She worked her way into the eyes of King Henry, and caused him to divorce his wife and virtually disown his only daughter so that he could have her. It tells how she did it, what resulted. She became a hated person. The people considered her a liar and a witch. This book tells how she fell out of favor with the King and in the end lost her life. I highly recommend this book.

Great book, fantastic location, 30 Oct 2007
I'm very intrested in history dating from the Roman period and i'm seriously considering history for GCSE. This book is one of the best i've ever read it's informative and very addictive. My Grandad lives near Bradgate park where Lady Jane grew up. I've walked round the ruins so many times wondereing what it looked like in it's glory days. After reading this book i could really imagine it. Bradgate is a Beautiful place and a perfect place to grow up in, the deer and the park around it is spectacular. I hope other people find this book interesting.

Excellent teen novel about Lady Jane Grey., 20 Jan 2005
Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for nine days at the age of fifteen before being executed for treason, narrates her story beginning at age nine. Unloved by her parents, young Jane had an unhappy and lonely childhood. Sent to court at age nine, she finally gained happiness as a maid of honor to Queen Katharine, wife of King Henry VIII. Even after the king dies, Jane remains a member of Katharine's household, but even that happiness is lost when Katharine dies in childbirth after remarrying. Returning home, Jane must once again endure her parents' cruelty, as they scheme to arrange a marriage for her that will bring them wealth and power. But when the young King Edward, Jane's beloved cousin, dies, Jane is unprepared for how far they will go. Staunch Protestants, Jane's parents are determined that Edward's Catholic half-sister Mary will not become queen -- and so they force their daughter to accept the crown of England in a plot that is doomed to failure.

This was an excellent historical novel for teens that tells the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey. I was really looking forward to reading this book, because I love historical novels about royalty, and Ann Rinaldi is one of my favorite authors. I am happy to say I am not disappointed at all. Ann Rinaldi brings Jane to life as an intelligent girl, observant and wise beyond her years, who against her will became a pawn in a power struggle she wanted no part in. This makes the inevitably sad ending even more tragic. Teen readers who are interested in historical fiction about royalty should definitely read this book.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 31 May 2007
Catherine de'Medici, Duchessina, grows up in a palace in Florence where her family rules the city. When her family falls out of power, she must flee. She becomes imprisoned within the walls of convents for her protection against the angry mob that calls for her death. At the first convent, the nuns make their hatred of her family no secret.

The Duchessina lives in misery, enduring the pain as best she can under the circumstances. Finally, the tides change and her family once again controls not only Florence but the papacy as well. The Pope, her old guardian, calls for her to live in Rome until he can make arrangements for her future.

As one of the richest woman in Europe, the Pope intends to make an advantageous marriage. He marries the Duchessina off to the Dauphin of France. The Dauphin cares little for his new wife and Catherine's misery continues, but she creates advantages to help ease her pain and eventually finds contentment.

A wonderful outlook on the creation of Madame Serpent, remembered in history as the "girl who endured." Carolyn Meyer takes another historical princess and adds strong characters and rich details to spin a delightful tale.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel

Anna Boleyn- Her Side Of The Story, 02 May 2008
In this book Anne Boleyn tells of her awful Childhood, were she was ignored because everyone favoured her sister, she talks of starting off so low as she was barely recognised by anyone, [as she was known as Mary Boleyn's Sister]gradually clawing her way to the top to be the Kings wife, but she was so hated that in the end Henry pressed charges against her so he could be rid of her. Find out the rest why she was the doomed Queen in the book...

EXCELLENT! Maybe my favourite Carolyn Meyer yet, 20 Nov 2005
Well, we all know the story of Anne Boleyn, 2nd wife of Henry VIII. I've read several adult books of Anne's life, with hard descriptions and terrible mistakes. But Meyer's version of this Boleyn novel is GREAT! Children - boys and girls - can read this book with utter ease and read it within days. It tells the story of ill-favoured, hated Anne Boleyn, youngest daughter of Thomas Boleyn. Meyer puts Anne's birth at 1507, starting the story in 1520 when Anne was supposedly 13. I believe Anne was born in 1501 or 1502 as Meyer suggested in Beware Princess Elizabeth and Mary Bloody Mary, but this hardly mattered. It tells Anne's life, in 1st person, from her courtship and childhood until her dramatic beheading in 1536, still only 28. A fabulous novel - for anyone who doesn't know about Anne Boleyn, READ THIS BOOK!!! It's only 230 pages and an EXCELLENT read, I promise you. Don't pick up those hard monotonous adult books about Anne - this one is FAR BETTER.

The Truth, 03 May 2004
Here, contained in this book, is the story of Anne Boleyn. In our society, nobody knows what to think of this woman. This book brings it out. Anne was a misfigured girl who wanted power. She worked her way into the eyes of King Henry, and caused him to divorce his wife and virtually disown his only daughter so that he could have her. It tells how she did it, what resulted. She became a hated person. The people considered her a liar and a witch. This book tells how she fell out of favor with the King and in the end lost her life. I highly recommend this book.

Great book, fantastic location, 30 Oct 2007
I'm very intrested in history dating from the Roman period and i'm seriously considering history for GCSE. This book is one of the best i've ever read it's informative and very addictive. My Grandad lives near Bradgate park where Lady Jane grew up. I've walked round the ruins so many times wondereing what it looked like in it's glory days. After reading this book i could really imagine it. Bradgate is a Beautiful place and a perfect place to grow up in, the deer and the park around it is spectacular. I hope other people find this book interesting.

Excellent teen novel about Lady Jane Grey., 20 Jan 2005
Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for nine days at the age of fifteen before being executed for treason, narrates her story beginning at age nine. Unloved by her parents, young Jane had an unhappy and lonely childhood. Sent to court at age nine, she finally gained happiness as a maid of honor to Queen Katharine, wife of King Henry VIII. Even after the king dies, Jane remains a member of Katharine's household, but even that happiness is lost when Katharine dies in childbirth after remarrying. Returning home, Jane must once again endure her parents' cruelty, as they scheme to arrange a marriage for her that will bring them wealth and power. But when the young King Edward, Jane's beloved cousin, dies, Jane is unprepared for how far they will go. Staunch Protestants, Jane's parents are determined that Edward's Catholic half-sister Mary will not become queen -- and so they force their daughter to accept the crown of England in a plot that is doomed to failure.

This was an excellent historical novel for teens that tells the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey. I was really looking forward to reading this book, because I love historical novels about royalty, and Ann Rinaldi is one of my favorite authors. I am happy to say I am not disappointed at all. Ann Rinaldi brings Jane to life as an intelligent girl, observant and wise beyond her years, who against her will became a pawn in a power struggle she wanted no part in. This makes the inevitably sad ending even more tragic. Teen readers who are interested in historical fiction about royalty should definitely read this book.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 31 May 2007
Catherine de'Medici, Duchessina, grows up in a palace in Florence where her family rules the city. When her family falls out of power, she must flee. She becomes imprisoned within the walls of convents for her protection against the angry mob that calls for her death. At the first convent, the nuns make their hatred of her family no secret.

The Duchessina lives in misery, enduring the pain as best she can under the circumstances. Finally, the tides change and her family once again controls not only Florence but the papacy as well. The Pope, her old guardian, calls for her to live in Rome until he can make arrangements for her future.

As one of the richest woman in Europe, the Pope intends to make an advantageous marriage. He marries the Duchessina off to the Dauphin of France. The Dauphin cares little for his new wife and Catherine's misery continues, but she creates advantages to help ease her pain and eventually finds contentment.

A wonderful outlook on the creation of Madame Serpent, remembered in history as the "girl who endured." Carolyn Meyer takes another historical princess and adds strong characters and rich details to spin a delightful tale.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel

A touching tale of life, 16 Oct 2008
This book I found very touching and I also found myself feeling the emotions of the characters and getting angry or upset on their behalf.
In someways I suppose many people have experienced prejudiced in this form and in different situations but the experience of life in this book that Napoli presents is amazinly colourful and bountyful in its decription and really pulls you into the story.

This book may also make new readers aware of the fact that history has many dimentions and what you read of original stories, or even the absence of facts, cannot always be true and/or misleading, which this story unfolds also open the oppourtunity to understand that people may not be what you think they are or may be the way they are because of something you missed or dont understand.

Napoli is a Goddess and many of her books present a different view or understanding of stories we are all 'familliar' with.

It was truly lovely!!!!!!!!!, 30 Sep 1999
I found this book to be wonderfully written. Napoli has a strong grasp on the words that make stories come alive. I am seventeen and I have read a lot of rewritten fairytales and historical novels, and this one charmed me. The story of Mary Magdalene was one that always intrigued me, and this book defintaly gave me some things to think on.

Wonderful!, 07 Apr 1999
Miriam (Mary Magdalene) is made into such a real character in this novel. Like Zel and The Magic Circle, this book is impossible to put down. I kept my family waiting for me at dinner for about 20 minutes when I just had to keep reading. The writing is beautiful and the moral issues this book brings up are very interesting. It is a wonderful book set in a time period that is not used much in YA fiction. Did I mention, this book is one of my favorites of all time? The subject matter is definitely for older readers--only ages 14 up (I'm 15)--but anyone old enough should read it.

Another beautiful Napoli Creation, 21 Dec 1998
Donna Jo Napoli's ZEL got me hooked onto her fantasy historical books. This was another fantastic fiction, full of the power of love and life. I recommend this for older and more advanced readers. Little kiddi readers may not enjoy or grasp the intensity and deepness this book offers.

I thought this was a great book in all aspects., 01 Dec 1998
Song of the Magdalene -Donna Jo Napoli This was a book of very good quality, bordering on excellence. I believe this book could be read at the grade seven or eight level, although the subject matter is more appropriate for grades nine to eleven. This book would appeal to most regular readers, but not all.

The timeline of the story is around 05 AD to 25 AD. Set in what is now Israel, this book has vivid scenes in mostly the town Magdala, and also various other places along the River Jordan. This book is an excellent reference to get a view of life in this time and place. Song of the Magdalene is a fictional story of the young Mary Magdalene. Her family a quite respected in her village, and they are not poor, to say the least. Miriam lives with her father, her servant friend Hannah and Hannah's paraplegic son Abraham. At the age of ten she leads a rather normal life until the occurrence of her first fit.(seizure) In her culture and religion having a physical affliction is seen as evil and a fit represents an evil sprit entering your body. Miriam is a smart girl; because of this she knows that she must not let anyone find out about her fits, or she will be labeled as impure and be a social disgrace. To hide she spends her days in the valleys and forests, when she should be doing chores, preparing herself to be a wife. Eventually Abraham, who is always stuck at home, convinces Miriam to bring him along on her excursions. Because he joins her, when she has her second fit he finds out about them, he assures her neither of them are evil. As they become closer Abraham teaches Miriam to sing the Song of Songs and to read the torah, two skills only men regularly have. They grow very close and an incident soon after sends Miriam's world spinning. All her secrets torn open, all her lies exposed. She is sent away. After much searching she finds herself, and the story ends where the fact from the bible begins, as Miriam meets Jesus. This book is very factual and the religious aspects of it are quite realistic. It is interesting to compare the social roles of men and women portrayed in this book to those of today, it sure has changed. I would consider this book quite an easy read with mature subject matter, which is not the best combination. Although Overall I would consider this book extremely good in all aspects including writing, historical facts, reality and to top it all off an adventurous story line.

Anna Boleyn- Her Side Of The Story, 02 May 2008
In this book Anne Boleyn tells of her awful Childhood, were she was ignored because everyone favoured her sister, she talks of starting off so low as she was barely recognised by anyone, [as she was known as Mary Boleyn's Sister]gradually clawing her way to the top to be the Kings wife, but she was so hated that in the end Henry pressed charges against her so he could be rid of her. Find out the rest why she was the doomed Queen in the book...

EXCELLENT! Maybe my favourite Carolyn Meyer yet, 20 Nov 2005
Well, we all know the story of Anne Boleyn, 2nd wife of Henry VIII. I've read several adult books of Anne's life, with hard descriptions and terrible mistakes. But Meyer's version of this Boleyn novel is GREAT! Children - boys and girls - can read this book with utter ease and read it within days. It tells the story of ill-favoured, hated Anne Boleyn, youngest daughter of Thomas Boleyn. Meyer puts Anne's birth at 1507, starting the story in 1520 when Anne was supposedly 13. I believe Anne was born in 1501 or 1502 as Meyer suggested in Beware Princess Elizabeth and Mary Bloody Mary, but this hardly mattered. It tells Anne's life, in 1st person, from her courtship and childhood until her dramatic beheading in 1536, still only 28. A fabulous novel - for anyone who doesn't know about Anne Boleyn, READ THIS BOOK!!! It's only 230 pages and an EXCELLENT read, I promise you. Don't pick up those hard monotonous adult books about Anne - this one is FAR BETTER.

The Truth, 03 May 2004
Here, contained in this book, is the story of Anne Boleyn. In our society, nobody knows what to think of this woman. This book brings it out. Anne was a misfigured girl who wanted power. She worked her way into the eyes of King Henry, and caused him to divorce his wife and virtually disown his only daughter so that he could have her. It tells how she did it, what resulted. She became a hated person. The people considered her a liar and a witch. This book tells how she fell out of favor with the King and in the end lost her life. I highly recommend this book.

Great book, fantastic location, 30 Oct 2007
I'm very intrested in history dating from the Roman period and i'm seriously considering history for GCSE. This book is one of the best i've ever read it's informative and very addictive. My Grandad lives near Bradgate park where Lady Jane grew up. I've walked round the ruins so many times wondereing what it looked like in it's glory days. After reading this book i could really imagine it. Bradgate is a Beautiful place and a perfect place to grow up in, the deer and the park around it is spectacular. I hope other people find this book interesting.

Excellent teen novel about Lady Jane Grey., 20 Jan 2005
Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for nine days at the age of fifteen before being executed for treason, narrates her story beginning at age nine. Unloved by her parents, young Jane had an unhappy and lonely childhood. Sent to court at age nine, she finally gained happiness as a maid of honor to Queen Katharine, wife of King Henry VIII. Even after the king dies, Jane remains a member of Katharine's household, but even that happiness is lost when Katharine dies in childbirth after remarrying. Returning home, Jane must once again endure her parents' cruelty, as they scheme to arrange a marriage for her that will bring them wealth and power. But when the young King Edward, Jane's beloved cousin, dies, Jane is unprepared for how far they will go. Staunch Protestants, Jane's parents are determined that Edward's Catholic half-sister Mary will not become queen -- and so they force their daughter to accept the crown of England in a plot that is doomed to failure.

This was an excellent historical novel for teens that tells the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey. I was really looking forward to reading this book, because I love historical novels about royalty, and Ann Rinaldi is one of my favorite authors. I am happy to say I am not disappointed at all. Ann Rinaldi brings Jane to life as an intelligent girl, observant and wise beyond her years, who against her will became a pawn in a power struggle she wanted no part in. This makes the inevitably sad ending even more tragic. Teen readers who are interested in historical fiction about royalty should definitely read this book.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 31 May 2007
Catherine de'Medici, Duchessina, grows up in a palace in Florence where her family rules the city. When her family falls out of power, she must flee. She becomes imprisoned within the walls of convents for her protection against the angry mob that calls for her death. At the first convent, the nuns make their hatred of her family no secret.

The Duchessina lives in misery, enduring the pain as best she can under the circumstances. Finally, the tides change and her family once again controls not only Florence but the papacy as well. The Pope, her old guardian, calls for her to live in Rome until he can make arrangements for her future.

As one of the richest woman in Europe, the Pope intends to make an advantageous marriage. He marries the Duchessina off to the Dauphin of France. The Dauphin cares little for his new wife and Catherine's misery continues, but she creates advantages to help ease her pain and eventually finds contentment.

A wonderful outlook on the creation of Madame Serpent, remembered in history as the "girl who endured." Carolyn Meyer takes another historical princess and adds strong characters and rich details to spin a delightful tale.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel

A touching tale of life, 16 Oct 2008
This book I found very touching and I also found myself feeling the emotions of the characters and getting angry or upset on their behalf.
In someways I suppose many people have experienced prejudiced in this form and in different situations but the experience of life in this book that Napoli presents is amazinly colourful and bountyful in its decription and really pulls you into the story.

This book may also make new readers aware of the fact that history has many dimentions and what you read of original stories, or even the absence of facts, cannot always be true and/or misleading, which this story unfolds also open the oppourtunity to understand that people may not be what you think they are or may be the way they are because of something you missed or dont understand.

Napoli is a Goddess and many of her books present a different view or understanding of stories we are all 'familliar' with.

It was truly lovely!!!!!!!!!, 30 Sep 1999
I found this book to be wonderfully written. Napoli has a strong grasp on the words that make stories come alive. I am seventeen and I have read a lot of rewritten fairytales and historical novels, and this one charmed me. The story of Mary Magdalene was one that always intrigued me, and this book defintaly gave me some things to think on.

Wonderful!, 07 Apr 1999
Miriam (Mary Magdalene) is made into such a real character in this novel. Like Zel and The Magic Circle, this book is impossible to put down. I kept my family waiting for me at dinner for about 20 minutes when I just had to keep reading. The writing is beautiful and the moral issues this book brings up are very interesting. It is a wonderful book set in a time period that is not used much in YA fiction. Did I mention, this book is one of my favorites of all time? The subject matter is definitely for older readers--only ages 14 up (I'm 15)--but anyone old enough should read it.

Another beautiful Napoli Creation, 21 Dec 1998
Donna Jo Napoli's ZEL got me hooked onto her fantasy historical books. This was another fantastic fiction, full of the power of love and life. I recommend this for older and more advanced readers. Little kiddi readers may not enjoy or grasp the intensity and deepness this book offers.

I thought this was a great book in all aspects., 01 Dec 1998
Song of the Magdalene -Donna Jo Napoli This was a book of very good quality, bordering on excellence. I believe this book could be read at the grade seven or eight level, although the subject matter is more appropriate for grades nine to eleven. This book would appeal to most regular readers, but not all.

The timeline of the story is around 05 AD to 25 AD. Set in what is now Israel, this book has vivid scenes in mostly the town Magdala, and also various other places along the River Jordan. This book is an excellent reference to get a view of life in this time and place. Song of the Magdalene is a fictional story of the young Mary Magdalene. Her family a quite respected in her village, and they are not poor, to say the least. Miriam lives with her father, her servant friend Hannah and Hannah's paraplegic son Abraham. At the age of ten she leads a rather normal life until the occurrence of her first fit.(seizure) In her culture and religion having a physical affliction is seen as evil and a fit represents an evil sprit entering your body. Miriam is a smart girl; because of this she knows that she must not let anyone find out about her fits, or she will be labeled as impure and be a social disgrace. To hide she spends her days in the valleys and forests, when she should be doing chores, preparing herself to be a wife. Eventually Abraham, who is always stuck at home, convinces Miriam to bring him along on her excursions. Because he joins her, when she has her second fit he finds out about them, he assures her neither of them are evil. As they become closer Abraham teaches Miriam to sing the Song of Songs and to read the torah, two skills only men regularly have. They grow very close and an incident soon after sends Miriam's world spinning. All her secrets torn open, all her lies exposed. She is sent away. After much searching she finds herself, and the story ends where the fact from the bible begins, as Miriam meets Jesus. This book is very factual and the religious aspects of it are quite realistic. It is interesting to compare the social roles of men and women portrayed in this book to those of today, it sure has changed. I would consider this book quite an easy read with mature subject matter, which is not the best combination. Although Overall I would consider this book extremely good in all aspects including writing, historical facts, reality and to top it all off an adventurous story line.

Brilliant, 15 Sep 2006
I buoght this book having seen that the story was being shown on TV as an ITV Drama. Thankfully I read the book before watching the programme. I found the book to be very interesting, and very hard to put down. A real insight into what life was like back then and what these people went through. The determination of this woman is amazing, a real inspiration.

Anna Boleyn- Her Side Of The Story, 02 May 2008
In this book Anne Boleyn tells of her awful Childhood, were she was ignored because everyone favoured her sister, she talks of starting off so low as she was barely recognised by anyone, [as she was known as Mary Boleyn's Sister]gradually clawing her way to the top to be the Kings wife, but she was so hated that in the end Henry pressed charges against her so he could be rid of her. Find out the rest why she was the doomed Queen in the book...

EXCELLENT! Maybe my favourite Carolyn Meyer yet, 20 Nov 2005
Well, we all know the story of Anne Boleyn, 2nd wife of Henry VIII. I've read several adult books of Anne's life, with hard descriptions and terrible mistakes. But Meyer's version of this Boleyn novel is GREAT! Children - boys and girls - can read this book with utter ease and read it within days. It tells the story of ill-favoured, hated Anne Boleyn, youngest daughter of Thomas Boleyn. Meyer puts Anne's birth at 1507, starting the story in 1520 when Anne was supposedly 13. I believe Anne was born in 1501 or 1502 as Meyer suggested in Beware Princess Elizabeth and Mary Bloody Mary, but this hardly mattered. It tells Anne's life, in 1st person, from her courtship and childhood until her dramatic beheading in 1536, still only 28. A fabulous novel - for anyone who doesn't know about Anne Boleyn, READ THIS BOOK!!! It's only 230 pages and an EXCELLENT read, I promise you. Don't pick up those hard monotonous adult books about Anne - this one is FAR BETTER.

The Truth, 03 May 2004
Here, contained in this book, is the story of Anne Boleyn. In our society, nobody knows what to think of this woman. This book brings it out. Anne was a misfigured girl who wanted power. She worked her way into the eyes of King Henry, and caused him to divorce his wife and virtually disown his only daughter so that he could have her. It tells how she did it, what resulted. She became a hated person. The people considered her a liar and a witch. This book tells how she fell out of favor with the King and in the end lost her life. I highly recommend this book.

Great book, fantastic location, 30 Oct 2007
I'm very intrested in history dating from the Roman period and i'm seriously considering history for GCSE. This book is one of the best i've ever read it's informative and very addictive. My Grandad lives near Bradgate park where Lady Jane grew up. I've walked round the ruins so many times wondereing what it looked like in it's glory days. After reading this book i could really imagine it. Bradgate is a Beautiful place and a perfect place to grow up in, the deer and the park around it is spectacular. I hope other people find this book interesting.

Excellent teen novel about Lady Jane Grey., 20 Jan 2005
Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for nine days at the age of fifteen before being executed for treason, narrates her story beginning at age nine. Unloved by her parents, young Jane had an unhappy and lonely childhood. Sent to court at age nine, she finally gained happiness as a maid of honor to Queen Katharine, wife of King Henry VIII. Even after the king dies, Jane remains a member of Katharine's household, but even that happiness is lost when Katharine dies in childbirth after remarrying. Returning home, Jane must once again endure her parents' cruelty, as they scheme to arrange a marriage for her that will bring them wealth and power. But when the young King Edward, Jane's beloved cousin, dies, Jane is unprepared for how far they will go. Staunch Protestants, Jane's parents are determined that Edward's Catholic half-sister Mary will not become queen -- and so they force their daughter to accept the crown of England in a plot that is doomed to failure.

This was an excellent historical novel for teens that tells the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey. I was really looking forward to reading this book, because I love historical novels about royalty, and Ann Rinaldi is one of my favorite authors. I am happy to say I am not disappointed at all. Ann Rinaldi brings Jane to life as an intelligent girl, observant and wise beyond her years, who against her will became a pawn in a power struggle she wanted no part in. This makes the inevitably sad ending even more tragic. Teen readers who are interested in historical fiction about royalty should definitely read this book.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 31 May 2007
Catherine de'Medici, Duchessina, grows up in a palace in Florence where her family rules the city. When her family falls out of power, she must flee. She becomes imprisoned within the walls of convents for her protection against the angry mob that calls for her death. At the first convent, the nuns make their hatred of her family no secret.

The Duchessina lives in misery, enduring the pain as best she can under the circumstances. Finally, the tides change and her family once again controls not only Florence but the papacy as well. The Pope, her old guardian, calls for her to live in Rome until he can make arrangements for her future.

As one of the richest woman in Europe, the Pope intends to make an advantageous marriage. He marries the Duchessina off to the Dauphin of France. The Dauphin cares little for his new wife and Catherine's misery continues, but she creates advantages to help ease her pain and eventually finds contentment.

A wonderful outlook on the creation of Madame Serpent, remembered in history as the "girl who endured." Carolyn Meyer takes another historical princess and adds strong characters and rich details to spin a delightful tale.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel

A touching tale of life, 16 Oct 2008
This book I found very touching and I also found myself feeling the emotions of the characters and getting angry or upset on their behalf.
In someways I suppose many people have experienced prejudiced in this form and in different situations but the experience of life in this book that Napoli presents is amazinly colourful and bountyful in its decription and really pulls you into the story.

This book may also make new readers aware of the fact that history has many dimentions and what you read of original stories, or even the absence of facts, cannot always be true and/or misleading, which this story unfolds also open the oppourtunity to understand that people may not be what you think they are or may be the way they are because of something you missed or dont understand.

Napoli is a Goddess and many of her books present a different view or understanding of stories we are all 'familliar' with.

It was truly lovely!!!!!!!!!, 30 Sep 1999
I found this book to be wonderfully written. Napoli has a strong grasp on the words that make stories come alive. I am seventeen and I have read a lot of rewritten fairytales and historical novels, and this one charmed me. The story of Mary Magdalene was one that always intrigued me, and this book defintaly gave me some things to think on.

Wonderful!, 07 Apr 1999
Miriam (Mary Magdalene) is made into such a real character in this novel. Like Zel and The Magic Circle, this book is impossible to put down. I kept my family waiting for me at dinner for about 20 minutes when I just had to keep reading. The writing is beautiful and the moral issues this book brings up are very interesting. It is a wonderful book set in a time period that is not used much in YA fiction. Did I mention, this book is one of my favorites of all time? The subject matter is definitely for older readers--only ages 14 up (I'm 15)--but anyone old enough should read it.

Another beautiful Napoli Creation, 21 Dec 1998
Donna Jo Napoli's ZEL got me hooked onto her fantasy historical books. This was another fantastic fiction, full of the power of love and life. I recommend this for older and more advanced readers. Little kiddi readers may not enjoy or grasp the intensity and deepness this book offers.

I thought this was a great book in all aspects., 01 Dec 1998
Song of the Magdalene -Donna Jo Napoli This was a book of very good quality, bordering on excellence. I believe this book could be read at the grade seven or eight level, although the subject matter is more appropriate for grades nine to eleven. This book would appeal to most regular readers, but not all.

The timeline of the story is around 05 AD to 25 AD. Set in what is now Israel, this book has vivid scenes in mostly the town Magdala, and also various other places along the River Jordan. This book is an excellent reference to get a view of life in this time and place. Song of the Magdalene is a fictional story of the young Mary Magdalene. Her family a quite respected in her village, and they are not poor, to say the least. Miriam lives with her father, her servant friend Hannah and Hannah's paraplegic son Abraham. At the age of ten she leads a rather normal life until the occurrence of her first fit.(seizure) In her culture and religion having a physical affliction is seen as evil and a fit represents an evil sprit entering your body. Miriam is a smart girl; because of this she knows that she must not let anyone find out about her fits, or she will be labeled as impure and be a social disgrace. To hide she spends her days in the valleys and forests, when she should be doing chores, preparing herself to be a wife. Eventually Abraham, who is always stuck at home, convinces Miriam to bring him along on her excursions. Because he joins her, when she has her second fit he finds out about them, he assures her neither of them are evil. As they become closer Abraham teaches Miriam to sing the Song of Songs and to read the torah, two skills only men regularly have. They grow very close and an incident soon after sends Miriam's world spinning. All her secrets torn open, all her lies exposed. She is sent away. After much searching she finds herself, and the story ends where the fact from the bible begins, as Miriam meets Jesus. This book is very factual and the religious aspects of it are quite realistic. It is interesting to compare the social roles of men and women portrayed in this book to those of today, it sure has changed. I would consider this book quite an easy read with mature subject matter, which is not the best combination. Although Overall I would consider this book extremely good in all aspects including writing, historical facts, reality and to top it all off an adventurous story line.

Brilliant, 15 Sep 2006
I buoght this book having seen that the story was being shown on TV as an ITV Drama. Thankfully I read the book before watching the programme. I found the book to be very interesting, and very hard to put down. A real insight into what life was like back then and what these people went through. The determination of this woman is amazing, a real inspiration.

there's hope!, 15 Oct 2004
I'm a Napoleon & Josephine enthusiast and have read many books about them. Most of them have left an impression on me. But they've been serious and quite disheartening. This book, however, sends a poignant touch through my heart. It is rare you find books such as this. Innocent and naive at times, but still very moving. The book starts with Josephine's (or Rose at that time...) childhood and how she leaves for France and finds herself married, with children, and lonely. She goes through many tribulations and travails before she meets the general who will change her life and bringforth her destiny.
it's a great read and i strongly reccomend it to those who want to begin an interest in this famous love story.