Book Description

Widge is an orphan with a rare talent for shorthand. His fearsome master has just one demand: steal Shakespeare's play "Hamlet"--or else. Widge has no choice but to follow orders, so he works his way into the heart of the Globe Theatre, where Shakespeare's players perform. As full of twists and turns as a London alleyway, this entertaining novel is rich in period details, colorful characters, villainy, and drama.

"A fast-moving historical novel that introduces an important era with casual familiarity." --School Library Journal, starred review

Awards:
( An ALA Notable Book
( An ALA Best Book for Young Adults
( An NCSS-CBC Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies
( A Smithsonian Magazine Notable Book
( A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
( A Child Study Children's Book Committee Best Children's Book of the Year ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Shakespeare Stealer
The Shakespeare Stealer is a great book to read. The book is about a boy named Widge.He is a orphan who is adopted by a man named Dr. Bright. Doctor Bright took Widge to his home and let him live with him. During the time Widge lived with Dr.Bright made his own alphabet and taught it to Widge. The a man named Simon Bass payed Dr.Bright ten pounds for Widge. Simon Bass the sends Widge with his worker Falconer to London to copy the play Hamlet. Widge sneeks into the theater while the players are practicing the play. then someone sees Widge but his knife is stuck on the curtin in the booth. He gets loose he is running and running he gets outside getting ready to hide in the back door but suddenly the door swings open. BOOM! I cant tell you the rest but go buy the book or get it at the library. Dont forget to renew the book or youll have a fine like mine . Got to go return my book .Bye

The Shakespeare Stealer
The Shakespeare Stealer is a book about a poor orphan boy, called Widge, living in Shakespearean England who can write a rare coded language in which symbols for each word can be written as the words are said. His forceful master, taking advantage of his ability, orders him to go to the Globe Theater to steal Shakespeare's Hamlet by writing down the lines of the play as the actors are acting them out. Though Widge, the poor, nameless orphan boy feels stealing the play is wrong, he enters the Globe Theater to copy down the play Hamlet. He is found by the players at the theater and they take him in and treat them as one of their own, while also being trained as an actor. While living with one of the men from the Lord Chamberlain's Men (the playing troupe) Widge, a country boy, adjusts to city life. However, Widge has not forgotten the threat his master made to him if he did not bring him a copy of Hamlet, and Widge knows that he has sent someone to London to find him and bring him back to the country. While living in London, Widge's accent is not the only thing that changes. For the first time in his life Widge can make decisions on his own. He learns about the meaning of words such as honesty, trust, loyalty, and friendship. He begins to realize that by working and living with the Lord Chamberlain's men, he is betraying them. The real reason he came to the theater was not to become a player, but to steal from Shakespeare himself, and consequently hurting the people who he is now closest to. Widge tries to decide whether he should betray his friends and copy the play or betray his master and stay in the Lord Chamberlain's Men for acting, not for the purpose of stealing a play, even though it means if his master finds him, Widge will receive severe punishment. Widge also learns that the playing troupe has become like family to him, something he has never experienced, but loves very much. Now he wonders: If his master finds him, will the only family he's ever known disappear from him forever?
I felt as though I could relate with the main character, Widge, for one main reason. All through his life, Widge tries to search for, or feel, a sense of belonging. I have moved between two continents and a dozen more houses during my life. I know how important it is to have a sense of belonging somewhere, because having a sense of belonging somewhere makes people unique and who they are. Widge learns that as long as everybody has people who love and care for them it doesn't matter where they live, they will always feel at home and as though thewy belong. That is why I think that Widge's "family" at the Globe Theater is so important and dear to him. I think The Shakespeare Stealer has a good message about family, and how no matter what it is lie, it is important to everybody's sense of belonging, is a good message.
I loved this book. It not only has action, such as duels and manhunts, it had a great perspective of Elizabethan life in the late fifteen hundreds from a teenager's point of view. My favorite part of the book is when Widge gets his first chance at acting on stage with the players. He was so nervous, he was sure he would forget everything, but once he was on stage he made a great performance. I think it proves that if anyone tries hard they can conquer just about anything. My least favorite part of the book was when an actor from The Lord Chamberlain's Men was forced to leave because she had disguised herself as a boy, because it was illegal for women to act. If I could change any part of the book, it would be that Julian, were allowed to stay on and act with the players, even though she was a girl. I think the fact that Julia was not allowed to stay on with the players, even if they wanted her to, shows the general sexism against women in England at the time, even though it was getting better because the sole ruler of England was a queen (Queen Elizabeth).
I would definitely recommend The Shakespeare Stealer to others because it has action, emotion, drama, and it is a great historical-fiction. It also shows a lot of aspects of Elizabethan England, but it is definitely not a bore. I think someone who likes excitement and historical fiction would greatly enjoy this book, and I highly recommend it.

The Sneaker Peaker Review of The Shakespeare Stealer
Will you have to steal a play from William Shakespeare? As kids read fictional novel The Shakespeare Stealer about an orphan torn to make the right decision, the tension grows. In the 1400s of England, Widge, the orphan is ordered to steal one of Shakespeare's plays. He goes up to the theatre and gets to join the theatre group. He is then torn to make the right decision. Will he steal the play?
Will you be torn to make the right decision? Will you also have to steal a play? The truth is for you to find. This book is a five star book and I recommend you to read this book. I highly recommend this book to preteens.
Once again, Gary Blackwood turns another book into a masterpiece such as Wild Timothy, The Year of the Hangman and Moonshire. Although there is violence in the book, you can see there is a lot to things you can learn in the book and what it means to make the right decision. There are also more books to this series. They are The Shakespeare Scribe and The Shakespeare Spy.

Wow--what more can I say?
Wow wow wow! This book is terrific! This book has an interesting main character, interesting plot, and interesting dialouge. You can learn alot (while having a good time) when you read The Shakespeare Stealer!

Couldn't put it down!
This book has been one of the greatest books I have read. If you haven't already read The Shakespeare Stealer, you absolutely have to. It was full of excitement, loyalty and friendship. It was a spectactular story, and I would read it every day if I could. It jogges the imagination and curiosity. I was fascinated with gary blackwood's style of writing and his plot which I think he wrote beautifly. READ THIS BOOK!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

WHIMSICAL TALE SUPERBLY ILLUSTRATED
Yes, this is categorized as a children's book, but don't be misled. It's a book for all with a sense of humor who enjoy quirky, whimsical tales superbly illustrated.

Radunsky is as imaginative and incorrigible as ever, saying, "In my children's books, I often like to use strange, eclectic combinations: absurd, funny text paired with very serious, weighty images, and vice versa."

He has done this again - in spades, and it's terrific fun.

His story, in a nutshell, is reminiscent of a Russian folktale, "The Turnip." But, in this case, we have an asparagus spear, a monstrous protuberance that's growing in the king's yard. He tries to pull it up to no avail. The queen helps, the princess helps, the king's advisers try, even a rhino is unable to budge this giant veggie. At last, the king's mother arrives on the scene - you'll have to guess the rest. Suffice it to say one should always listen to one's mom.

Radunsky's paintings are stunning - he has drawn on Italian Renaissance art, combining his own paintings with fragments of classical Renaissance paintings. The results are splendidly smile provoking. Art aficionados will recognize the works of Bellini, Fra Angelico, Mantegna, and others. Children may well find a beginning interest in Renaissance art.

Gracie, Vladimir Radunsky. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

Patience and You Will Win
This is the 3rd book in the Young Royals series. This historical novel is based on Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII's first wife. This opens in 1533, as Catherine refuses to release King Henry VIII from their marriage, renounce her title, or recognize Anne Boleyn as queen. She is imprisoned in a "moldering castle" and allowed no visitors and no contact with her daughter, Mary. This book shows Catherine reflecting on her experiences, beginning with her voyage to England at age 15 to marry Prince Arthur. Their marriage, in name only, lasted 6 months until his death in 1502. Over the next 7 years, Catherine lives with increasing poverty and decreasing prospects of marrying England's new crown prince, Henry. It shows how she hard her life was. It gives you new insight into her life. I think this book is better from 12 years and up.

A wonderful addition to the Young Royals series.
Catherine of Aragon was a young Spanish princess known as Catalina when she left her home in the summer of 1501 to sail to England. Catherine had known since childhood that she was betrothed to Prince Arthur, heir to the throne of England, and that one day she would have to leave Spain to marry him. Now that she is fifteen, that day has come. Arriving in England, Catherine has hope for her future. Arthur appears kind, and it seems they will at least be friends. But due to Arthur's poor health, their marriage is in name only. And just six months after the wedding, Arthur suddenly dies. Now Catherine finds her once-certain future in question. As a woman she is utterly powerless to make decisions about her own life, and can only wait while those in power determine her fate. Will she be returned to Spain so that her parents can negotiate a new marriage for her elsewhere -- or will she be married to Arthur's younger brother Prince Henry, the new heir to the throne of England? Carolyn Meyer brought the world of Tudor England to life in this novel. Catherine is portrayed as a real young woman with hopes and dreams, making her ultimate fate seem all the more tragic. Readers who enjoyed the author's other books in the Young Royals series won't want to miss this one.

Another great young royals book
In the 4th book of Carolyn Meyer's Young Royals series, we meet another one of the Tudor women, Catherine of Aragorn, Henry VII's first wife out of six. It is 1501, and young Catherine of Spain is betrothed to Arthur, the heir to England's throne. She begins by writing of a her journey to England. What was to be a great union of two powers was not to be as Catherine describes her utter loneliness in the English court. Arthur is very sickly and unable to perform the duties of a husband to Catherine. Six mothes after marriage, Arthur dies, and Catherine's fate is thrown up in the air as Spain and England dispute the outcome. There are rumors that she will return to Spain, and also rumors that she will marry Henry. Catherine's life is thrown into chaos for the next 7 years, and she lives through a time of poverty while the two kingdoms fight over her drowry. Through it all Catherine is determined to become Queen of England one day. During this time she comes into acquaintence with Henry, Arthur's younger brother. Catherine takes a liking to Henry and in the end, she does marry Henry and become England's Queen, though quickly the happiness fades. This was another wonderful book in the Young Royals series. Catherine painted a very vivid image of her life in the English court and her feelings toward Arthur and Henry. Fans should definitely also read Mary, Bloody Mary, about Catherine's daughter, and Doomed Queen Anne, about Anne Boleyn, the woman who ultimately stole Henry's heart from Catherine. ... Read more

Book Description

Only in the world of the theater can Nat Field find an escape from the tragedies that have shadowed his young life. So he is thrilled when he is chosen to join an American drama troupe traveling to London to perform A Midsummer Night's Dream in a new replica of the famous Globe theater.

Shortly after arriving in England, Nat goes to bed ill and awakens transported back in time four hundred years -- to another London, and another production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Amid the bustle and excitement of an Elizabethan theatrical production, Nat finds the warm, nurturing father figure missing from his life -- in none other than William Shakespeare himself. Does Nat have to remain trapped in the past forever, or give up the friendship he's so longed for in his own time? ... Read more

Reviews (38)

A new world
With this novel, I think that Cooper has created a fun and original work. It is a story of a boys acting company who travel to London to preform at the rebuilt Globe Theater. For one boy, the trip involves not just a voyage across the Atlantic, but a journey in time as well. Nat Field finds himself back in Elizabethian London acting in the role of Puck in Shakespeare's personal production of A Midsummer's Night Dream.

This odd transposition in time allows for some interesting interaction with the setting. For a twentieth century boy, the London of Shakespeare's day is a strange world. Having no modern convieniences (such as toilets) and having the drink at every meal be ale are things that don't fit the everyday life of a young American boy. But Nat gets along and proves himself as an actor in Shakespeare's own production.

Given the general elements of this book, not all young readers would enjoy it. To identify with or even to like the main character, one cannot by a typical American kid. The theatrical world and the ability to understand the historical setting of Shakespeare's time are, unfortunately, completely foreign to most kids these days. So this book is not for the typical nintendo-playing sports-loving kid, but rather for the imaginitive book-lover. (For the book is full of imagination and history.)

The book isn't perfect, but it is still a fun read. As an adult reader, I wished that I could have read more about the purpose behind the time travel, but I realize that what was written is sufficient for a younger audience. So, as a young adult novel, it is a great book, well worth the read.

Outstanding Shakesperean time-travel fantasy
Nat Field, an actor in the American Company of Boys, goes to London with the troupe to play the role of Puck in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the new Globe Theatre. Suddenly, he is transported back in time to 1599 London and finds himself portraying Puck at the original Globe. Not only that, he's performing with Will Shakespeare himself, who is playing Oberon! The author brings the sights, sounds and smells of Elizabethan London to life and takes us behind the scenes of the Bard's own production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." After reading this, you'll probably want to read the play and see a performance yourself. Susan Cooper, who was a student of J.R.R. Tolkien, is an outstanding writer and storyteller. Don't miss her magnum opus, the five-book "The Dark Is Rising" series.

Just a good historical book
King of Shadows was oddly good. It tells of a boy named Nat who is playing Puck in A Midsummer Night's Dream. One night he falls ill, goes to sleep, and wakes up in 1599 Elizabethan England, right in the middle of Shakespeare's own performance of the Dream. It was very accurate historically and ideal for anyone who likes Shakespeare. I would suggest reading the play, A Midsummer Night's Dream before reading this book. It was meant for grades 7-9.

A GREAT book for children 10 and up!!
The book is about young Nat Field. He is playing Puck in a Midsummer Night's Dream. When he goes to bed ill, he is transported back 400 years. (...) I was very pleased with this book. I highly recommend it for girls or boys.

Great book Cooper
I love books and i thought this book was extremly well written, and easy enough to follow along without any troubles. And my aunt had the pleasure of meeting Susan Cooper and said that she is a very nice woman. I hope one day i will get to meet the woman who wrote such a wonderful book:) ... Read more

Book Description

Now that Lady Grace is the Queen’s secret "Lady Pursuivant"—a title normally reserved for those who pursue wrongdoers of the Crown—she can hardly believe that a new mystery has fallen in her lap. But what else can it be when Lady Sarah, a fellow lady-in-waiting known for her fancy clothes and hoity-toity attitude, is missing and feared kidnapped by the dashing Captain Drake. Despite her hard feelings, Grace must help rescue Sarah . . . or Sarah’s sullied reputation will ruin her life. But was Sarah really kidnapped? It’s up to Lady Pursuivant to find out! ... Read more

Book Description

WHEN MARGARET CAVENDISH, one of Elizabeth I’s Gentlewomen of the Bedchamber, lost her life in a bungled attempt to kill the Queen, her daughter, Lady Grace, became a protégée to the monarch, who takes Grace under her wing. Now Grace, a spunky girl who romps through the gardens with the laundry maids and court tumblers and rolls her eyes at her fellow ladies, chronicles the court intrigues that swirl around her. . . .

It’s the spring of 1569 and 13-year-old Lady Grace, the youngest lady-in-waiting to the Queen, finds herself at a glittering ball choosing amongst three suitors. But the Queen’s generosity turns deadly as threats, dark secrets, and even murder descend on the Tudor court. And it is up to Grace to use her intelligence, stealth, and curious nature to solve the mystery that threatens the very lifeblood of England. ... Read more

Book Description

There were no spaceships or airplanes when Zoro was a boy. He lived in Italy during the era we now call the Renaissance, a time when the sky belonged to the birds. But one unusual man dreamed of incredible flying machines. "One day, Zoro," he told his pupil, "people will sail through the clouds and look down at the world below." Zoro was curious. He knew that his teacher did more than merely dream about the future, but was an important artist and inventor. Then Zoro made an astonishing discovery. His teacher was building a mysterious machine. A machine intended to fly! Here begins a fascinating story based on a true event, for Zoro's master was the famous artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci. Full-color illustrations throughout this beautiful book include reproductions of some of Leonardo's famous artworks. (Ages 4-8) ... Read more

Book Description

Tibaldo Bondi, son of the assistant to the great Florentine physician Turisanus, is supposed to celebrate his 12th birthday on October 10, 1582. But 1582 is no ordinary year. Inaccuracies in the calendar established under Julius Caesar have been piling up for over a millennium, the equinoxes are coming earlier and earlier in the year, and Easter is inexorably drifting out of traditional season. When Pope Gregory XII decrees a long-needed calendar reform, part of the correction involves dropping ten days from the year. Social upheaval ensues. Workers will lose ten days' wages, rent payments are due only twenty days apart, and Tibaldo's birthday is lost.

Determined to recover his birthday, quick-witted Tibaldo manages an audience with Pope Gregory and speaks his mind. This story cleverly weaves an enjoyable account of the cultural and scientific milieu of 16th century Italy. Through Tibaldo's eyes, we learn of contemporary medical skills as practiced by his sister, a midwife, and his father; from Tibaldo's schoolteachers we learn about Renaissance astronomy and other sciences: and of course we learn the basis of the Gregorian reform that led to the calendar we use, with just minor changes, to this day.

Beautifully illustrated with drawings that reflect the style of the era, Tibaldo and the Hole in the Calendar offers a fascinating look at the Renaissance period and a delightful tale that will entertain readers of all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Author's statement about Tibaldo
Tibaldo and the Hole in the Calendar is a fictional story with a historically and scientifically correct setting. In 1582 Pope Gregory XIII proclaimed a reform of the calendar, including the omission of ten days--Oct. 5 through Oct. 14 of 1582-- to correct the inaccuracy of the Julian calendar. Tibaldo Bondi's twelfth birthday, on Oct. 10, 1582, would be omitted, to his distress. He imaginatively and courageously fought to recover his birthday, by asking help from his teachers and the governor of Bologna, and eventually from the Pope himself. The Pope was so amused (laughing for the first time in eight years!) by Tibaldo's daring and clever arguments that he issued a special decree restoring the celebration that would have been lost in 1582. This fictional decree is printed here in authentic papal Latin, but a translation is given. Tibaldo goes on to become a famous physician, pioneering in the use of the microscope and in preventive measures against the spread of infections. He also pioneers in the education of women, marrying a woman astronomer and ensuring that one of his daughters becomes a midwife, one a physician, and one an astronomer. As the background for the story much information is given about astronomy, medicine, midwifery, the history of the calendar, and the religious and political history of Italy. The book is printed in a Renaissance format and the beautiful etchings by Jonathan Shimony are in the style of Renaissance book illustration. The story and the factual background are accessible to children of age ten years or more but are also fascinating reading for adults. It is a particularly instructive and amusing book for a parent to read with a child. Tibaldo has been translated into French, Italian, German, Japanese, Chinese, Polish, and Greek, and is due to be translated into Spanish, Portuguese, and Hebrew. Tentative plans are underway to make a movie of it, to be set in Bologna, Italy.

A wonderful book for both children and adults
This book is really quite charming. It beautifully blends science, philosophy, history, and fiction into a format that is accessible to children and entertaining for adults. Highly recommended ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great Source of Historical Information
This book is excellent.... EL Konigsburg describes the apprentice Salai's service to Leonardo very well... It seems as if you are watching it take place before you, instead of in reality reading it. The Mona Lisa has always been a mystery, how Leonardo labored painting a merchant's wife whilst other noble families begged him for theirs to be done [such as Isabella d'Este]. The thing that really fascinated me throughout this book was that, it was all based on something real. This book was supposed to be a book report, ended up being my spare reading book that I read when I had spare time. Ahh....Thank god for book reports...

Why I Recommend This: by a teenage book lover
I picked up this book mainly because I saw that it was written by E. L. Konigsburg, a given that it would be a good read. Let's just say it was, in that sense, not disappointing (especially the beginning & middle). I didn't really know that much about Leonardo DaVincci (forgive my spelling errors) before reading this, except that to describe him as a genious would be an understatment, but by the end of the book I felt as if I knew him and understood him both as an artist and a person. And I will never look at The Mona Lisa or any other of his artwork the same again. But to tell you the truth I found the end a bit disapointing. I suppose that was really my own fault though. I had forgotten that this book was based on reality and in my amnesia imagined, or to put it better had no doubts, that there would be some miraculous surprise ending. I EXPECTED a fairy tale ending. It never even occured to me that anyone would die for real! (You see I thought that the death was fake -- a scam to fool the public. Yes, I know I have a wild imagination.) I disliked the ending because I was unprepared for it. I didn't realize I was on the last page until I was literally on the last page. You know how you can tell you're getting to the end of a book because you feel only a few pages in your right fingers? Well, that doesn't work with this book -- there are pictures of paintings by DaVincci (?) in the back of the book. I turn the last page expecting to find the next chapter but find instead that the book is done. I believe "That's it?" were my exact words. I have to say though that the end made the story even more real -- as in it would've happened in real life. The story was excellent despite my immature need for a happy ending. But I AM consistent (I felt the same after Romeo & Juliet). I think that if I had to categorize this book I would place it in the "star-crossed lovers doomed for tragedy" section rather than the "historical fiction -- Leonardo DaVincci" section. Only because the story it really about Leoonardo, eventhough you do learn a lot [of accurate stuff] about him. I believe the story is more romantic, more about true beauty, than anything else. How can I not recommend this book?

Who was Mrs. Giaconda?
The Second Mrs. GIaconda is a magnificently written book by a favorite author, E.L. Konigsburg. Intially the story begins in Milan, Italy, but as it progresses the characters travel to many other locations in sixteenth century Renaissance Europe.

The main character, Salai, is a young thief at the age of thirteen, with hair as curly as a pig's tail. Renaissance man, Leonardo da Vinci, befriends Salai and makes him an apprentice. The only real talent Salai possesses is his ability to make Leonardo laugh. The pair reside in Milan with Duke Il Moro and his wife Beatrice de Este'. Beatrice possesses great inner beauty and they come to love her deeply. A compelling series of events lead up to Leonardo's painting of a mere merchant's wife, the captivating Mona Lisa.

This is a wonderful book filled with a little action, some adventure, some tears and a host of big laughs. It is a wonderful read for any person over the age of ten. The Second Mrs. Giaconda is a story you may want to read again and again!

Who is the Mona Lisa????
I wasn't very interested in this book because it is about the 19th century and Leonardo Da Vinci. It's a mystery about who the Mona Lisa really was. The mona lisa is believed to be a lot of people; Leonardo Da Vinci painted himself as a woman, The second Mrs. Giaconda, and Beatrice (a character in the book) are a few of the suggested.

The Second Mrs. Giaionda
The book tries to solve the mystery of who the Mona Lisa was and why Leonardo painted her. The book also allows you to glimpse the day to day life of Leonardo, the man, artist and inventor. ... Read more

Book Description

Though born without great beauty, wealth, or title, Anne Boleyn blossomed into a captivating woman. She used her wiles to win the heart of England's most powerful man, King Henry VIII, and to persuade him to defy everyone--including his own wife--to make her his new queen. But Anne's ambition proved to be her fatal flaw.
... Read more

Reviews (17)

Great Book!
This book unfolds the life of Anne Boleyn, a ill-favored girl that lived under the shadow of her sister throughout her childhood. Anne's sister, Mary Boleyn, was the prominent type beauty during the 16th century in England. Mary had been the mistress of King Henry VIII. However, as young Anne came to England from the French court as a stylish graceful lady, she soon caught the eye of King Henry. Anne Boleyn played her "games" upon the men in the English court and did all she could to win the heart of King Henry, the most powerful man in the nation. Anne's ambitions and strong will guided her through her struggling to be queen, the every peril in her life, and her uncertain path to power. Anne Boleyn was a mysterious yet prominent female figure of the Tudor family and her only daughter, Queen Elizabeth I, became on of the most prominent rulers in history. Though Anne Boleyn was executed when King Henry lost his interest in her, Anne's wits and determination led her to the fullfillment of her words to Mary, "One day, I shall be queen and you will kneel before me!"

Oh, beware, Mistress Anne...
"Wait and see - someday I shall be queen of England, and you will kneel at my feet!" declares thirteen-year-old Anne Boleyn haughtily and angrily to her show-off of an older sister, Mary. A mole on her neck, a sixth finger, dark-haired, thin-framed, and pale - how could such an "ill-favored child" amount to anything, her parents wonder. Don't underestimate her, Boleyn family. She inherited her ambitious nature from you, and she'll do anything to prove herself. She'll win the heart of hot-blooded Henry VIII one way or another.
Oh, beware, Mistress Anne. You don't know what you're getting yourself into. Henry cast aside one wife for failing to get him a legitimate male heir. What makes you so sure you won't fail, as well? Keep prodding and tantalizing, and you will get yourself in deep trouble...
I highly recommend this one. The Tudor family has always fascinated me, especially Anne Boleyn and her daughter Elizabeth, and I love a good historical fiction romance! You'll love it, too!

Wonderful but hard to understand
This was a very good book. I love history and Henry the
VIII so this was perfect. It was a little hard to understand. But other than that I loved it!!!

...
This book like the others in the young royal collection was very well written but I thought it lacked some of the qualities that made it great. I (as a Henry VIII buff) loved how she protrayed Mary in Mary, Bloody Mary and I thought she was fair to her character and didnt look over her faults. I dont believe she did this in Doomed Queen Anne. Anne Boylen had her faults and if you look at history I believe it is evident that she very power hungry, and in many intaces very cruel. I believe the author glossed over that part of her character to make her appear more likeable.

I loved every page of this book!
I loved this book, from beginning to end. It was so cool to see all these events in history from Queen Anne's own viewpoint. I learned a lot about her and about her interesting life. I have read all the other books in the Young Royals Series and Carolyn Meyer is now my favorite author. I would recommend the whole series to everyone, but this book was my favorite in this series. It was so well-written. I just couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. I also didn't want the book to end. I'd give this book more than 5 five stars! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Another exciting mystery featuring Lady Grace.
It's late November of 1569, and thirteen-year-old Lady Grace Cavendish, a Maid of Honour to Queen Elizabeth I, can't wait to visit the Frost Fair on the frozen river Thames.But while visiting the fair, she and her fellow Maids discover a dead body in a boat frozen into the ice. When Grace discovers that the dead man's body has two coins on his eyes, and that those coins are counterfeit copies of a new coin that has not yet been released, she knows she has another mystery to solve. With the help of her best friends, Ellie the laundry maid, and Masou the tumbler, Grace is determined to find the villain responsible for the counterfeiting and murder. But every suspect seems to lead to a dead end. Will Grace find the true criminal in time?

This is another great Elizabethan mystery adventure with the very likable Lady Grace Cavendish. Told in the form of Grace's diary, this book not only has a great story, but brings to life the world of England in 1569. Readers who enjoyed the first three Lady Grace Mysteries won't want to miss this book, and new readers who love historical mysteries should definitely give this series a try. I can't wait to read the fifth book in this series! ... Read more

Book Description

When an outbreak of the deadly Black Plague closes the Globe Theatre, William Shakespeare's acting troupe sets off on a tour of England.Widge, the orphan-turned-actor, knows that he'll be useful on the trip.Not only does he love the stage, but his knack for a unique shorthand has proven him one of the most valuable apprentices in the troupe.But then a mysterious man appears, claiming to know a secret from Widge's past-a secret that may forever force him from the theatre he loves.

"An exciting, well-written tale that is sure to leave [readers] clamoring for more." (School Library Journal, starred review) ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Terrific Adventure Story
When my twelve year old son recommended The Shakespeare Stealer to me, I put it aside for a while, but, gosh, my son doesn't recommend books very often to his English teacher mom, so I read it. The colorful characters and swift-moving plot kept me involved, so I was ready when my son handed me the sequel. I found it even better! Swordfights, the plague, and a mysterious, suspicious character enliven the plot. And Will Shakespeare himself has more of a role. What a fun and I must say educational (the dreaded E word) read for this age group! I'm ordering the next in the series today!

Greatest Novel I've Read in Awhile
This clever novel was one that I couldn't put down! It was
exciting and fun to read. I read it in about 4 days, and
I totally enjoyed it. This book covers tough topics, while
being an enjoyable read. I would reccomend it to both boys
and girls ages 11 and up because of some material in it that
may be tough to understand. Read and Enjoy!

Slowest Book Ever
My friend ... had read this book for the monthly book report. She reccomended to everyone! So I checked it out and started to read. Like 2 hours past and nothing really was going on...i was only on page 109 but still! I dont like it at all because it was so s l o w (slow). I reccomend it only to the people who have a lot of time and like books with alot of acting.

As good as its predecessor!
This is an absolutely fantastic sequal! It leaves a lot of room for a third book though, and we can only hope that we won't have to wait too long.

Even better than the Shakespeare Stealer.....
This book is an excellent read! IT is even better than the shakespeare stealer. After the plague becomes a threat to Lord Chamberlin's men they have to travel and preform plays in order to keep everything running. Sander decides to stay behind to take care of the orphan children and Widge goes. Widge however has a new threat. This new actor, Sal Pavy, who is as rude as anything is stealing all Widge's roles. Of course Widge is a good actor but is the new Sal Pavy even better? And to make matters worse Mr. Shakespeare breakes his arms and has to have Widge scribe for him. If Widge already doesn't have 2 much 2 do-- he also become a small physician for the Chamberlin's men since he was an apprentice to a physician, Dr.Bright, before. And then widge meets someone who claims to be his father. Is he really who he says he is? If so will Widge leave the company to be with him? This is a must read. ... Read more

Book Description

Intrigue, betrayal, and romance surround Widge as we find him backin London and at the center of things, as usual. Queen Elizabeth, Shakespeare's patron, has died, but the new king and his queen love drama-on stage and off.Shakespeare has begun a new play about political intrigue, but real intrigue is close at hand. Someone is stealing from the company, and Shakespeare's scripts must be guarded at all costs-including the one he has given up on and turned over to Widge to finish. Widge finds the glory of being a playwright appealing, especially when there's a pretty girl to impress. But spying is even more exciting!

Readers swept up in the first two adventures about Widge and Shakespeare's players will be enthralled yet again by this third tale with its dramatic twists and turns and an ending worthy of the Bard himself. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Shakespeare's Spy
I was drawn in by the first Shakespeare book by Gary - "Shakespeare Stealer" and was pleased to read more about Widge and his continuing adventures in this 3rd book - "Shakespeare's Spy." Gary Blackwood is an extraordinary writer and amazingly brings Widge and the other characters to life in this non stop, what's going to happen next, who did it, tale!! This particular book has many plots: who is stealing from Mr. Shakespeare? Will Widge write his own play? Will Widge get the girl? and more importantly, does he really want the girl?? and what about that fortune teller? Must read to find out!! ... Read more

Book Description

Based on a true story recorded in the fifteenth century.

What does Piero de' Medici want with Michelangelo on such a snowy day? That is what Sandro, the youngest page in the palazzo, wonders when he overhears that the ruler of Florence has summoned the sculptor to his courtyard. Exploding with curiosity, Sandro roams the palazzo looking for his father, who will surely know the reason for such an odd request. From the loggia to the kitchen, from the chapel to the stable, Sandro searches. Finally, when there's no place left to look, a commotion in the courtyard itself leads him to the satisfying solution to the mystery: Michelangelo is there, putting the final touches on a huge, beautiful snowman. Tony Parillo's accomplished watercolors combine historical realism with Renaissance style. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Surprisingly dull
I had great expectations for this book, but was quite disappointed. The illustrations are cartoonish, and only one page is devoted to Michaelangelo's actual work on the snowman. The fact that this story is real is what motivated me to buy it, but, alas, the book is a page-by-page hide-and-seek search for the narrator's father. (Is he in the kitchen? No-o-o. Is he in the stable? No-o-o.) So much more could have been done with this story, so much more! My 6 year old tried to act politely interested, but was as bored as I.

Parillo's Surprise
Perhaps Tony Parillo's book, Michaelangelo's Surprise, should be retitled, "Parillo's Surprise." This children's book is a must for anyone and everyone who has ever been to Florence, Italy. The artistic pages of this book are incredibly wonderful and fun to look at, not just for children. Mr. Parillo must have worked extremely hard on this book because it reminds me of visiting a church or museum in Italy. The more you look, the more you see. It is a wonderful book for children; it has the capacity to introduce them to the architecture and beauty of the Italian culture. Kudos for a wonderful work of art!!!

A Truly Beautiful Storybook that Will Engage All Readers
I was magically transported to a romantic time and place. The fantastic pictures that author/artist Parillo has created takes this book well beyond the typical children's storybook. It is truly glorious! My children adored it and I loved it. This is one is a "keeper." ... Read more

Book Description

Have you ever wondered how a picture book is made?

The process is similar to the way we play a team sport, put on a play, or build a sandcastle-through collaboration. Writers and illustrators collaborate in a variety of ways. Sometimes they start as friends who choose to work together. Sometimes they become friends through the work they do. And sometimes they find that their feelings and styles change to the point where they can no longer work together. Each collaborative team and venture is unique.

Side by Side focuses on five famous author/illustrator teams and favorite books they have published: € Arthur Yorinks/Richard Egielski & Louis the Fish € Alice Provensen/Martin Provensen & The Glorious Flight € Jon Scieszka/Lane Smith/Molly Leach & The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales € Julius Lester/Jerry Pinkney & Sam and the Tigers € Joanna Cole/Bruce Degen & The Magic School Bus Explores the Senses

Personal anecdotes, edited manuscripts, sketches, and dummy book pages show the give-and-take that goes on between authors, illustrators, editors, and designers as they are working on projects they feel passionate about. By taking readers behind the scenes of these works in progress, Marcus gives us insight into how teamwork, cooperation, and friendship play a role in shaping the creative process, and will inspire readers to view their own team effort in fresh new ways. ... Read more

Book Description

Susanna Shakespeare finds the small town of Stratford-upon-Avon much too quiet and provincial. She yearns to travel to London to see her father's world of players and poets, and to follow a secret dream of her own. Once Susanna arrives in London, nothing is quite as she expected it to be -- least of all her relationship with her famous father. But propelled by her love for Thomas Cole, a Catholic chorister, and her desire to sing, Susanna discovers that it is only with the support of those who love her that she has the strength to succeed.

Screenwriter Peter W. Hassinger creates a Shakespearean tale rife with imagery and beauty that pays homage to the Bard himself.

Reviews (1)

Praise for Mr. Hassinger-
I was not, not by a long shot, bored or confused at any point in this book. Everything came across clear with a high point of interest. Each character, coupled with Mr. Hassinger¡¯s deeper understanding of their minds, was like frosting on the cake. Indeed, though he had only been in the book a scant few pages, I shed a tear for poor Hamnet. Of course, all my friends thought I was batty, but they have yet to indulge in the novel. Even the bard himself brought forth a new image that I might not have imagined for such as himself- the image of a father. Besides this, he wrote everything. Nothing, no emotion nor suspicion, went edited for the uncommon uses, such as older men looking at Susanna, and Will¡¯s (may I call him Will?) parental protection kicking in. It brings a reality to the time period that I¡¯ve never sensed in other books revolving around the same era. ... Read more

Book Description

Meet Providence Traveler. Providence likes to make things. Not just ordinary things like macaroni pictures, but things that have never been made before. So it is not surprising that her hero is Leonardo da Vinci, the great sixteenth-century artist and inventor. One day at the library, when Providence is taking out her favorite book, Leonardo da Vinci: Boy Was He Busy, she finds a scrap of paper covered with interesting designs for what looks like a mechanical mouse with a key coming out of its back. Diligently she follows the instructions on the paper and builds the intricate mouse. Just as she is putting on the finishing touches, in barge her brother and the meddlesome McMuzzin twins, who turn the key in the mouse's back. Suddenly there is a sound like thunder and a flash of light...and the four find themselves transported to Florence, Italy, during the time when Leonardo was alive. Will Providence get to meet her hero?

Gifted artist and storyteller Robert Sabuda introduces young readers to an extraordinary new character -- Providence Traveler -- whose curiosity and excitement will match their own. Providence leads readers on an exciting adventure, full of fun and fascinating information. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Time Travel + Invention Delights
Use this one with fifth graders on up, get out the Leonardo books, a map of Florence, and hang on to your hats. Lots of little detailed pages on cathedrals, printing, and daily life and the storyline's frantic quality (Providence has to find the twins who have the windup key for Topo, the time travel machine/mouse that got them to 1504. When you've read it three or four times, maybe the students will want to take Providence Traveler to other long ago and far away locations and write their own adventures of this fearless mousette who loves to invent things. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Nice looking, but poorly written book
I was dissappointed to read this book. First, I wondered, who is going to read this? It's too long for younger readers, and its a picture book, so older children will never pick it up. The narrative is poorly written and lacks cohesiveness. Based on reviews, I thought it would be terrific, but I was very dissappointed.

Fresh, Spirited...A Delight to Read.....
On the opening page of M.T. Anderson's and Kevin Hawkes' new picture book biography is a portrait of Handel with a bit of commentary attached. "This is George Frideric Handel. He looks very satisfied with things. He's smiling a little, as if he's very sure of himself. You'd have to be sure of youself to wear a wig that gigantic." And that, in a nutshell, describes this world famous composer. Handel was a man who knew what he wanted. Even as a child he was headstrong and decisive. He knew what he liked, he didn't care what others thought, and he made it happen. He was a man of force and spirit who controlled his own destiny, and in doing so became one of the most beloved and respected composers in the world; a man who's music has lived on for centuries..... M.T. Anderson's witty and irreverent text is full of history, marvelous anecdotes of some famous and not so famous events, fun facts, and trivia, and enhanced by Kevin Hawkes lush and expressive artwork. Young and old alike will relish the drama, humor, and brilliant detail in each picture With sidebars within the text explaining musical terminology, and a timeline of Handel's life, and lists of recordings and other biographies at the end, Handel: Who Knew What He Liked, is a joyous, fun-filled masterpiece that is sure to whet the appetites of youngsters 8-12. One of the best new books of 2001, this is definitely a biography that shouldn't be missed!

Great Non-Fiction
This is a biography that is fun enough to use as a read aloud. According to Anderson, Handel was quite a character, sneeking things behind his father's back and dueling with his best friend. The funny personal anectdotes spice up the great historical information on each page. The illustrations give a good sence of Handel's personality, and of the period. I especially liked the rococo frames and end pages. Anderson has included a time line, list of recordings, and further reading at the end of the book. Grades K-3. ... Read more