Duchessina: A Novel of Catherine de' Medici (Young Royals Series)

by Carolyn Meyer

Overview

Young Catherine de' Medici is the sole heiress to the entire fortune of the wealthy Medici family. But her life is far from luxurious. After a childhood spent locked away behind the walls of a convent, she joins the household of the pope, where at last she can be united with her true love. But, all too soon, that love is replaced with an engagement to a boy who is cold and aloof. It soon becomes clear that Catherine will need all the cunning she can muster to command the respect she deserves as one of France's most powerful queens. Includes a family tree.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780152066208
Publisher:	Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Publication date:	04/27/2009
Series:	Young Royals Series
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	272
Product dimensions:	4.20(w) x 6.80(h) x 0.70(d)
Lexile:	950L (what's this?)
Age Range:	12 - 17 Years

About the Author

Carolyn Meyer  is the acclaimed author of more than fifty books for young people. Her many award-winning novels include Mary, Bloody Mary, an ABA Pick of the Lists, an NCSS-CBC Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies, and an ALA Best Book for Young Adults; Anastasia: The Last Grand Duchess, a New York Times bestseller; White Lilacs, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, an NYPL Best Book for the Teen Age, and an IRA Young Adults' Choice; and Marie, Dancing, a BookSense Pick. Ms. Meyer lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Visit her website at www.readcarolyn.com.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"This captivating tale of the rise of this Italian merchant family is seldom portrayed, and it plays out delightfully in this well-written novel."—School Library Journal "A sympathetic, engrossing portrait of a noble girl who, later in life, became a feared queen. . . . With meticulous historical detail, sensitive characterizations, and Catherine's strong narration, Meyer's memorable story of a fascinating young woman who relies on her intelligence, rather than her beauty, will hit home with many teens."—Booklist

Editorial Reviews

"This captivating tale of the rise of this Italian merchant family is seldom portrayed, and it plays out delightfully in this well-written novel."—School Library Journal
"A sympathetic, engrossing portrait of a noble girl who, later in life, became a feared queen. . . . With meticulous historical detail, sensitive characterizations, and Catherine's strong narration, Meyer's memorable story of a fascinating young woman who relies on her intelligence, rather than her beauty, will hit home with many teens."—Booklist

From the Publisher

The people of Florence hate Catherine de' Medici, Duchess of Urbino, because of her last name. Medici does not resonate well in the hearts of the people because of the evils caused by the elders of her family. This fact creates many problems for Catherine, nicknamed Duchessina, during her life as an orphan. Shuffled from convent to convent, she must deal with those who hate her. More often than not, fate drags her from those she loves. Duchessina grows up quickly, relying on her verbal confidence and the art of persuasion to obtain information that helps her along her difficult path. Friends become a vital part of her life, as she is not even allowed to choose her husband. The novel shows the hardships of a woman during the sixteenth century, and it also demonstrates that noble birth does not always ensure one's happiness. Also, because the Duchessina uses charm in unfortunate circumstances, she exemplifies the traits of one who attempts to be content with her position in life. The novel may appeal primarily to early teen girls trying to find their place in the world. The Duchessina demonstrates strength despite her vulnerable position, and her place as royalty creates greater interest because of the historical context. This creative view into the mind such an intriguing historical figure makes for an engaging read. Reviewer: Rachel Leigh Smith

Children's Literature - Rachel Leigh Smith