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The Redheaded Princess
Growing up, Elizabeth fears she can never be Queen. Although she is the King's daughter, no woman can ever hope to rule over men in England, especially when her mother has been executed for treason. For all her royal blood, Elizabeth's life is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Sometimes she is welcome in the royal court; other times she is cast out into the countryside. With her position constantly changing, the Princess must navigate a sea of shifting loyalties and dangerous affections. At stake is her life—for beheading is not uncommon among the factions that war for the Crown. With the vivid human touch that has made her one of the foremost writers of historical fiction, Ann Rinaldi brings to life the heart and soul of the young Elizabeth I. It's a portrait of a great leader as she may have been as she found her way to the glorious destiny that lay before her.
214 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2008
12 people are currently reading
1640 people want to read
About the author
Ann Rinaldi
69 books990 followersAnn Rinaldi (b. August 27, 1934, in New York City) is a young adult fiction author. She is best known for her historical fiction, including In My Father's House, The Last Silk Dress, An Acquaintance with Darkness, A Break with Charity, and Hang a Thousand Trees with Ribbons. She has written a total of forty novels, eight of which were listed as notable by the ALA. In 2000, Wolf by the Ears was listed as one the best novels of the preceding twenty-five years, and later of the last one hundred years. She is the most prolific writer for the Great Episode series, a series of historical fiction novels set during the American Colonial era. She also writes for the Dear America series.
Rinaldi currently lives in Somerville, New Jersey, with her husband, Ron, whom she married in 1960. Her career, prior to being an author, was a newspaper columnist. She continued the column, called The Trentonian, through much of her writing career. Her first published novel, Term Paper, was written in 1979. Prior to this, she wrote four unpublished books, which she has called "terrible." She became a grandmother in 1991.
Rinaldi says she got her love of history from her eldest son, who brought her to reenactments. She says that she writes young adult books "because I like to write them."
Rinaldi currently lives in Somerville, New Jersey, with her husband, Ron, whom she married in 1960. Her career, prior to being an author, was a newspaper columnist. She continued the column, called The Trentonian, through much of her writing career. Her first published novel, Term Paper, was written in 1979. Prior to this, she wrote four unpublished books, which she has called "terrible." She became a grandmother in 1991.
Rinaldi says she got her love of history from her eldest son, who brought her to reenactments. She says that she writes young adult books "because I like to write them."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
February 1, 2018
The The Redheaded Princess, by Ann Rinaldi, is a charming book written about the young Queen Elizabeth the first. It told most of her story, how she grew up, who she was the closest with, and also what she might have actually been thinking before and in the beginning of her reign. There was drama, old fashioned romance, parties, dancing, feasting, and all the guilty pleasures I'm sure you could enjoy if you were of her status at that time.
It broke my heart at times when she would feel so conflicted, and hurt, and not really be sure of what to do next. But thankfully, she had her closest friends to help and guide her through this troubling and traumatic time period. I loved the humor, the descriptions of the characters. It was an absolute pleasure to read. When reading the book, I often found myself wondering, will we ever have someone like her leading our country? Have we before? But alas, that is the last thing that we need right now. Changing the way our government works and making it into an entirely different system would lead to destruction and catastrophic events. there were some parts that I was not fond of, mostly because this book is supposedly supposed to be an appropriate book. But I overall think it was a lovely book. I think people would like to read it, just maybe............ 16 and older? I think that would be more appropriate. Ann, I love your book. Thank you for writing it.
For now I go to a different adventure to read. Till then, I bid you good reading.
It broke my heart at times when she would feel so conflicted, and hurt, and not really be sure of what to do next. But thankfully, she had her closest friends to help and guide her through this troubling and traumatic time period. I loved the humor, the descriptions of the characters. It was an absolute pleasure to read. When reading the book, I often found myself wondering, will we ever have someone like her leading our country? Have we before? But alas, that is the last thing that we need right now. Changing the way our government works and making it into an entirely different system would lead to destruction and catastrophic events. there were some parts that I was not fond of, mostly because this book is supposedly supposed to be an appropriate book. But I overall think it was a lovely book. I think people would like to read it, just maybe............ 16 and older? I think that would be more appropriate. Ann, I love your book. Thank you for writing it.
For now I go to a different adventure to read. Till then, I bid you good reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2009
This was the first book I have read by Ann Rinaldi. I liked it. The redheaded princess being Elizabeth I, Queen of England. This is a historical fiction about her early life as the princess. Again, I was reading aloud with my 11 year-old daughter, and we both enjoyed the story. It wasn't as captivating as I had hoped. It was good, but not great.
I did find myself cringing at one part in the book. Sir Thomas Seymour loved Elizabeth enough to propose to her, but once she refused, took little time to recover and married her step-mother, the widow of King Henry VIII. The part that had me skipping sentences, Thomas would go into Elizabeth's bedroom every morning and "romp" with her. Tickling, putting hands all over her, slapping her rump. Very tasteful for "new" books these days. If this were an adult book, It would be considered very clean, you get the idea and do not need it spelled out, which I am grateful that Rinaldi did not go furthur into detail, especailly since it is fiction, it could be worse. But, this is a book targeted to the 9-12 year old. Could we just leave that part out. OK, so he loves her and marries Katherine just to be near Elizabeth, but romping in the bedroom every morning, Yuck!
I did find myself cringing at one part in the book. Sir Thomas Seymour loved Elizabeth enough to propose to her, but once she refused, took little time to recover and married her step-mother, the widow of King Henry VIII. The part that had me skipping sentences, Thomas would go into Elizabeth's bedroom every morning and "romp" with her. Tickling, putting hands all over her, slapping her rump. Very tasteful for "new" books these days. If this were an adult book, It would be considered very clean, you get the idea and do not need it spelled out, which I am grateful that Rinaldi did not go furthur into detail, especailly since it is fiction, it could be worse. But, this is a book targeted to the 9-12 year old. Could we just leave that part out. OK, so he loves her and marries Katherine just to be near Elizabeth, but romping in the bedroom every morning, Yuck!
October 11, 2012
Cover Blurb: I don't mind the person on the cover of this book because it's a side profile, she's not staring at me, and it's done in the style of a portrait.
What I Liked: Rinaldi has always been good at breathing new life into historical figures. I think that it must be harder to do so with famous historical figures - such as Queen Elizabeth I. But she did a remarkable job. She paints a very interesting and entirely believable picture of a young Elizabeth: mature for her age, but flawed, and regal. A young girl who learned the meaning of treachery very early on, and a young girl who was very clever. And Elizabeth had to have been clever in order to literally keep her head through the turmoils of her time - and to be able to dodge marriage proposals and her own sister.
What I Disliked: The relationship between Elizabeth and Thomas Seymour was just creepy. I don't think it was supposed to be romantic, and I'm not saying the Author should have left it out. But I had a very difficult time sympathizing with Elizabeth on this matter.
Believability: As with all of her books, The Redheaded Princess is very well researched, and I have nothing to complain about.
Writing Style: As always, it's good. She gives Elizabeth a convincing narrative voice, as she does with all of her protagonists.
Content: The Author handles Elizabeth and Thomas Seymour's very short affair without undue detail, though the purpose behind their morning game was made clear without being graphic.
Conclusion: This was a very pleasant historical-fictional summary of Elizabeth's early life before she became queen. It was enjoyable; not at all disappointing.
Recommended Audience: Historical fiction fans, Rinaldi fans, girl-read, fourteen and up.
What I Liked: Rinaldi has always been good at breathing new life into historical figures. I think that it must be harder to do so with famous historical figures - such as Queen Elizabeth I. But she did a remarkable job. She paints a very interesting and entirely believable picture of a young Elizabeth: mature for her age, but flawed, and regal. A young girl who learned the meaning of treachery very early on, and a young girl who was very clever. And Elizabeth had to have been clever in order to literally keep her head through the turmoils of her time - and to be able to dodge marriage proposals and her own sister.
What I Disliked: The relationship between Elizabeth and Thomas Seymour was just creepy. I don't think it was supposed to be romantic, and I'm not saying the Author should have left it out. But I had a very difficult time sympathizing with Elizabeth on this matter.
Believability: As with all of her books, The Redheaded Princess is very well researched, and I have nothing to complain about.
Writing Style: As always, it's good. She gives Elizabeth a convincing narrative voice, as she does with all of her protagonists.
Content: The Author handles Elizabeth and Thomas Seymour's very short affair without undue detail, though the purpose behind their morning game was made clear without being graphic.
Conclusion: This was a very pleasant historical-fictional summary of Elizabeth's early life before she became queen. It was enjoyable; not at all disappointing.
Recommended Audience: Historical fiction fans, Rinaldi fans, girl-read, fourteen and up.
May 11, 2008
Reviewed by The Compulsive Reader for TeensReadToo.com
In Rinaldi's spectacular new book for young adults, she's moved beyond American history to British, and the tale of a young redheaded girl who yearned to be queen.
Despised by her father and sister, shoved aside by the nation's leaders, and motherless, young Elizabeth I grows up at her country estate where she learns from a young age the dangers of crossing paths with monarchs. She realizes that even though her sister and her brother stand between her and the Crown, she will one day be queen.
THE REDHEADED PRINCESS is her sharp, fast-paced, and beautifully wrought story of how that came to be.
Wonderfully detailed and breathtakingly accurate, this is perhaps the most engaging book that tells of Elizabeth's plights and triumphs.
In Rinaldi's spectacular new book for young adults, she's moved beyond American history to British, and the tale of a young redheaded girl who yearned to be queen.
Despised by her father and sister, shoved aside by the nation's leaders, and motherless, young Elizabeth I grows up at her country estate where she learns from a young age the dangers of crossing paths with monarchs. She realizes that even though her sister and her brother stand between her and the Crown, she will one day be queen.
THE REDHEADED PRINCESS is her sharp, fast-paced, and beautifully wrought story of how that came to be.
Wonderfully detailed and breathtakingly accurate, this is perhaps the most engaging book that tells of Elizabeth's plights and triumphs.
February 15, 2016
I love anything this author has written. I started this book at 8:30 pm on 2/13 and finished it at 12:30 am on 2/14. I have been this way with all of her books. I have always been fascinated by Elizabeth's life and read anything that has to do with her and when I saw that my favorite author had written a historical fiction based from Elizabeth's life I just knew I had to have this. I love this book more than I can even begin to express.
March 11, 2018
This book was a great book. I liked it because it tells you about some of the things that happened before Elizabeth was queen.
June 19, 2022
Oh wow. I admit I love YA and I love Ann Rinaldi's books on American history told through girls' eyes, but this one is also a gem. I want to go read more about Elizabeth. I already have but the human side of her I missed. She grew larger than life, this one however seems to explain more. And I totally get Ann's end notes about Elizabeth seeping into her, waiting for her to tell her story.
Thank you Ann Rinaldi.
Thank you Ann Rinaldi.
September 15, 2013
Ah, finally got to read Rinaldi's foray into British history after all of her US historical fiction that I've enjoyed so much. I knew the basics of Elizabeth's ascent to being queen, so for me her winding path through Edward, Jane Grey, and Mary weren't a surprise, but I didn't know the details of her dalliances, though I knew she had had them. Rinaldi does, as always, a good and interesting job of exploring her protagonist's path to maturity (though her nine year-olds always seem like they have the equivalent maturity of 30-somethings. Not that that's a bad thing), and explains well Elizabeth's decision never to marry through the fates of Catharine Parr, Mary, Sir Thomas Seymour, and even Robin.
The section on Sir Thomas Seymour is interesting for Rinaldi in that it's probably the most risque writing she's done (at least that I've read), and even then it's rather tame, but it fits well with what I feel like is her forte: showing children on the cusp of adulthood who are both desperately curious about the world around them and also shocked and appalled by some of the ugly realities they learn about racism, adult relationships/sex, cruelty, etc. Unlike some of her other male characters, Sir Thomas seems somewhat charming but always seems mostly sleazy (I suppose fitting with his true character - she doesn't want us as readers to fall for him too much!). Robin is somewhat sympathetic but feels rather flat as a love interest, too, so in that sense, it doesn't feel like Elizabeth is sacrificing all that much in choosing to remain single (especially in the interests of preserving her own power and autonomy), and perhaps we're meant to feel that way.
Though I liked getting a more intimate glimpse at the royal family (Edward, for example, wishing that he had more spending money and free time to play sports as an eleven year-old king, Mary suiting herself up in her armor in one of her last deliriums, and some of the details about King Henry VIII being so fat and ill at the end of his life that he couldn't walk), it almost felt like this book was much more gossip than plot. Elizabeth's motivation/hope was always to become Queen, of course, and that was clear, but otherwise this book felt more like things were happening to Elizabeth than that she was really doing much in any way (other than dodging accusers or being implicated with schemes to overthrow the crown). In that sense, though the story was still exciting and at times emotional, it didn't feel like it had any true drive. Perhaps this is because this was an essentially passive period in Elizabeth's life (or it could also be because it seems like she spent a good half of the novel sick). Neither of these things seem to be Rinaldi's fault; it's not up to her or not whether history decided to be interesting. Still...
This also wasn't one of my favorites of Rinaldi's books, but I'm glad I got the chance to read it. It definitely piqued my curiosity about Elizabeth's later life, and I would absolutely read about that if Rinaldi were to continue in this vein.
The section on Sir Thomas Seymour is interesting for Rinaldi in that it's probably the most risque writing she's done (at least that I've read), and even then it's rather tame, but it fits well with what I feel like is her forte: showing children on the cusp of adulthood who are both desperately curious about the world around them and also shocked and appalled by some of the ugly realities they learn about racism, adult relationships/sex, cruelty, etc. Unlike some of her other male characters, Sir Thomas seems somewhat charming but always seems mostly sleazy (I suppose fitting with his true character - she doesn't want us as readers to fall for him too much!). Robin is somewhat sympathetic but feels rather flat as a love interest, too, so in that sense, it doesn't feel like Elizabeth is sacrificing all that much in choosing to remain single (especially in the interests of preserving her own power and autonomy), and perhaps we're meant to feel that way.
Though I liked getting a more intimate glimpse at the royal family (Edward, for example, wishing that he had more spending money and free time to play sports as an eleven year-old king, Mary suiting herself up in her armor in one of her last deliriums, and some of the details about King Henry VIII being so fat and ill at the end of his life that he couldn't walk), it almost felt like this book was much more gossip than plot. Elizabeth's motivation/hope was always to become Queen, of course, and that was clear, but otherwise this book felt more like things were happening to Elizabeth than that she was really doing much in any way (other than dodging accusers or being implicated with schemes to overthrow the crown). In that sense, though the story was still exciting and at times emotional, it didn't feel like it had any true drive. Perhaps this is because this was an essentially passive period in Elizabeth's life (or it could also be because it seems like she spent a good half of the novel sick). Neither of these things seem to be Rinaldi's fault; it's not up to her or not whether history decided to be interesting. Still...
This also wasn't one of my favorites of Rinaldi's books, but I'm glad I got the chance to read it. It definitely piqued my curiosity about Elizabeth's later life, and I would absolutely read about that if Rinaldi were to continue in this vein.
August 10, 2008
Rinaldi, Ann. 2008. The Redheaded Princess.
The Redheaded Princess. What can I say about this one? It's a fictional novel--for teens--about Princess Elizabeth. The novel opens when she's a child and she's still estranged from her father, King Henry VIII. The novel closes with the death of her sister, Queen Mary, a.k.a Bloody Mary. In between, there are many ups and downs along the way. Her semi-reconciliation with her father and his newest and latest wife, Katharine. Her relationship with her half-brother, Edward, the boy who would become King (and did in fact become King) yet who never really "reigned" on his own. Too young. Too sickly. Her very, very strange relationship with Thomas Seymour. Her turbulent relationship with her older half-sister, Mary.
Elizabeth's life was strange. No doubt about it. Never knowing her mother, only really hearing about how she had "bewitched" the King into divorcing his wife. She was presented to the girl as a whore and a witch. Someone dangerous to imitate. She had a distant relationship with her father. Sometimes in favor and in court, other times forgotten and left to fend for herself in the country. Not that she was alone. She had her servants, her friends, her tutors. But still. Without parental guidance let's say. And she didn't have normal family relationships with her brother and sister either. When one sibling has the power of life and death over the others, the power to imprison, things can get messy very very quickly.
The plotting. Oh the plotting. The scheming. It seems that there was never an end to the number of people who wanted to use these three children as pawns to gain favor, esteem, wealth, and power. Manipulations. Trying to turn the family against one another time and time again.
The religion. I wonder if readers grasp just how big this Catholic versus Protestant issue was back in the day. Where being one or the other could cost you your life. To realize just how opposing and judgmental they were of one another. It is hard, I think, for readers to grasp until they've studied the era, studied the writers of that time period. This was really and truly life and death stuff. And believers had to be ready to die for how they chose to worship. For how they viewed the sacraments.
Anyway, if you're already familiar with the Tudors, with Henry VIII and his children (Mary, Elizabeth, Edward), then you won't learn much more than you already know. If you're not that familiar, this would be a nice place to start.
This novel would be a good companion to Rinaldi's previous novel, Nine Days A Queen: The Short Life and Reign of Lady Jane Grey.
The real question may be how does this one compare to Carolyn Meyer's series on the Young Tudor women.
Mary, Bloody Mary. Doomed Queen Anne. Patience, Princess Catherine. Beware Princess Elizabeth. And the answer to that would be purely subjective.
The Redheaded Princess. What can I say about this one? It's a fictional novel--for teens--about Princess Elizabeth. The novel opens when she's a child and she's still estranged from her father, King Henry VIII. The novel closes with the death of her sister, Queen Mary, a.k.a Bloody Mary. In between, there are many ups and downs along the way. Her semi-reconciliation with her father and his newest and latest wife, Katharine. Her relationship with her half-brother, Edward, the boy who would become King (and did in fact become King) yet who never really "reigned" on his own. Too young. Too sickly. Her very, very strange relationship with Thomas Seymour. Her turbulent relationship with her older half-sister, Mary.
Elizabeth's life was strange. No doubt about it. Never knowing her mother, only really hearing about how she had "bewitched" the King into divorcing his wife. She was presented to the girl as a whore and a witch. Someone dangerous to imitate. She had a distant relationship with her father. Sometimes in favor and in court, other times forgotten and left to fend for herself in the country. Not that she was alone. She had her servants, her friends, her tutors. But still. Without parental guidance let's say. And she didn't have normal family relationships with her brother and sister either. When one sibling has the power of life and death over the others, the power to imprison, things can get messy very very quickly.
The plotting. Oh the plotting. The scheming. It seems that there was never an end to the number of people who wanted to use these three children as pawns to gain favor, esteem, wealth, and power. Manipulations. Trying to turn the family against one another time and time again.
The religion. I wonder if readers grasp just how big this Catholic versus Protestant issue was back in the day. Where being one or the other could cost you your life. To realize just how opposing and judgmental they were of one another. It is hard, I think, for readers to grasp until they've studied the era, studied the writers of that time period. This was really and truly life and death stuff. And believers had to be ready to die for how they chose to worship. For how they viewed the sacraments.
Anyway, if you're already familiar with the Tudors, with Henry VIII and his children (Mary, Elizabeth, Edward), then you won't learn much more than you already know. If you're not that familiar, this would be a nice place to start.
This novel would be a good companion to Rinaldi's previous novel, Nine Days A Queen: The Short Life and Reign of Lady Jane Grey.
The real question may be how does this one compare to Carolyn Meyer's series on the Young Tudor women.
Mary, Bloody Mary. Doomed Queen Anne. Patience, Princess Catherine. Beware Princess Elizabeth. And the answer to that would be purely subjective.
January 18, 2016
I read this for a book report in 8th grade. We had to go this thing where we had to find an adult to read the book with us and I read it with my mom. I just picked and I didn't quite understand. When I was 13, I was quite ignorant to the Tudor era. I didn't even know Elizabeth I was Henry VIII's daughter.
This book is the starter of a long standing 3 and a half year long obsession I've had with Edward VI. Honestly, he was my favorite character. I loved him so much. He's probably one of the least important kings of all time and yet I'm madly in love with him.
I can't tell you how historically acurate it is because honestly, I could care less about the Tudor dynasty once Edward VI is no longer part of it. Henry VIII and Edward VI's reigns are my field of expertise when it comes to the Tudor era. But most of what I know seems pretty acurate.
I learned so much from this book. As I've stated before, it's started a long standing interest with this time period. I am now the proud owner of 5 books relating to the Tudor era and the proud owner of entire Tudors TV show box set.
I only really have two complaints about the book:
1.) The book is not as good, in my opinion, once Edward dies. But that's up to the individual. I liked Edward the book just wasn't as fun to read after he was gone. Ultimately most people will probably be like, "Oh, it's so sad that he died so young." and move on with their lives where as I was devastated.
2.) I re-read it just a few months ago at the end of my sophomore year of high school and I realized just how easy of a read it is. I read that whole book in one school day the second time around. It's not a book intended for older audience by a long shot. It's probably more for children aged 10-13, so about middle school aged children is the most appropriate age to be reading this book.
It's not an innocent, youthful story as the title would make it seem. It's a story about growing up and making the transition from childhood to adulthood. That's why it's so perfect for middle schoolers because that's the time in your life when you're still in between. In honesty, Elizabeth has a lot of problems that most teenagers deal with. She gets crushes, she has heartbreak, she has to deal with the stress of learning, she has to deal with her messed up family and how divided her sister is from her and Edward.
So if you're a parent or teacher of a child that really likes historical fiction, this would be a great book to recommend to them.
This book is the starter of a long standing 3 and a half year long obsession I've had with Edward VI. Honestly, he was my favorite character. I loved him so much. He's probably one of the least important kings of all time and yet I'm madly in love with him.
I can't tell you how historically acurate it is because honestly, I could care less about the Tudor dynasty once Edward VI is no longer part of it. Henry VIII and Edward VI's reigns are my field of expertise when it comes to the Tudor era. But most of what I know seems pretty acurate.
I learned so much from this book. As I've stated before, it's started a long standing interest with this time period. I am now the proud owner of 5 books relating to the Tudor era and the proud owner of entire Tudors TV show box set.
I only really have two complaints about the book:
1.) The book is not as good, in my opinion, once Edward dies. But that's up to the individual. I liked Edward the book just wasn't as fun to read after he was gone. Ultimately most people will probably be like, "Oh, it's so sad that he died so young." and move on with their lives where as I was devastated.
2.) I re-read it just a few months ago at the end of my sophomore year of high school and I realized just how easy of a read it is. I read that whole book in one school day the second time around. It's not a book intended for older audience by a long shot. It's probably more for children aged 10-13, so about middle school aged children is the most appropriate age to be reading this book.
It's not an innocent, youthful story as the title would make it seem. It's a story about growing up and making the transition from childhood to adulthood. That's why it's so perfect for middle schoolers because that's the time in your life when you're still in between. In honesty, Elizabeth has a lot of problems that most teenagers deal with. She gets crushes, she has heartbreak, she has to deal with the stress of learning, she has to deal with her messed up family and how divided her sister is from her and Edward.
So if you're a parent or teacher of a child that really likes historical fiction, this would be a great book to recommend to them.
March 5, 2011
I don't know what to expect from this author. I didn't know, I should say. I got it out because we're studying Queen Elizabeth right now in History, and I thought that this might be nice. I like historical fiction, usually. It captured my attention because of how amazing the picture on front is. Yes, yes, the girl is cute, but I was intrigued by how life-like the picture was, and you could literally imagine that this picture, this imagination was actually a real girl. Wow. So, I never saw that coming, but I now have a shelf for cool covers. =P
Oh, my.
Well. I thought that Rinaldi could have done better, to be honest. I've never read anywhere but here about Elizabeth's life being a complete romance, with her jumping from guy to guy and falling in love with every one. In truth, it made me disgusted, and wondered if Rinaldi got the truth or just likes romance and decided to ruin Elizabeth's image in my mind as a good queen who really cared about her people. Gah. I mean, her first little romance thingy starts when she's--what--14? For heaven's sake. And then, she's in love with this other guy... and this other guy... and Rinaldi says in the voice of Elizabeth, "I decided right then, that I would never let a man hold sway over me." Good night. And then she goes and "falls in love" again. I was not expecting romance, but at least it could be a good one, and Rinaldi really portrayed Elizabeth as a total loser, whatever she may think.
The storytelling was lame; it moved way too fast when I wanted it to slow down to understand what was going on, and it moved way too slow when I wanted it to just move on already. The characters were all either calculating and sly or good-hearted and angelic. I just couldn't stand it.
And the romance in it! For naive little me... well, we'll leave that bit alone.
No, I don't think I'll be reading Rinaldi's stuff again.
Oh, my.
Well. I thought that Rinaldi could have done better, to be honest. I've never read anywhere but here about Elizabeth's life being a complete romance, with her jumping from guy to guy and falling in love with every one. In truth, it made me disgusted, and wondered if Rinaldi got the truth or just likes romance and decided to ruin Elizabeth's image in my mind as a good queen who really cared about her people. Gah. I mean, her first little romance thingy starts when she's--what--14? For heaven's sake. And then, she's in love with this other guy... and this other guy... and Rinaldi says in the voice of Elizabeth, "I decided right then, that I would never let a man hold sway over me." Good night. And then she goes and "falls in love" again. I was not expecting romance, but at least it could be a good one, and Rinaldi really portrayed Elizabeth as a total loser, whatever she may think.
The storytelling was lame; it moved way too fast when I wanted it to slow down to understand what was going on, and it moved way too slow when I wanted it to just move on already. The characters were all either calculating and sly or good-hearted and angelic. I just couldn't stand it.
And the romance in it! For naive little me... well, we'll leave that bit alone.
No, I don't think I'll be reading Rinaldi's stuff again.
July 15, 2008
This story begins in England in the year 1542, when Elizabeth is nine years old. Although she is the daughter of King Henry VIII, she is not officially recognized as a princess because she, along with her other half-siblings Edward and Mary, have fallen out of their father’s favor. Instead, she lives as Lady Elizabeth, head of the household at Hatfield with her nanny. Throughout her childhood she rarely visits her father at the palace.
Many people say that she is very much like her father; this pleases her, but also makes her uneasy. After all, King Henry beheaded her mother! Watching her father’s relationships with so many women, Elizabeth learns that marriage while on the throne only seems to complicate things and vows to remain single when she eventually becomes queen.
However, this is easier said than done. From the age of eleven she begins receiving requests from men for her hand in marriage…and we must remember that Elizabeth is third—not first—in line for the crown. Not only must she cope with that, she must also stay in her family’s favor as time goes on. She gets along fine with Edward when he is king, but she and Mary but heads over religion when Mary is queen. In fact, Mary gets so angry that she uses her power to send Elizabeth to the Tower because she won’t bend to her will. How is Elizabeth able to survive until 1558, the year she is finally able to accept the crown as her own?
This is a good, fast-paced story told from Elizabeth’s point of view. Ann Rinaldi does admit at the end that this is indeed her own interpretation of Elizabeth’s story and that there are probably more accurate accounts out there, but that her goal was to make a fun book about an interesting female figure based on historical events.
Many people say that she is very much like her father; this pleases her, but also makes her uneasy. After all, King Henry beheaded her mother! Watching her father’s relationships with so many women, Elizabeth learns that marriage while on the throne only seems to complicate things and vows to remain single when she eventually becomes queen.
However, this is easier said than done. From the age of eleven she begins receiving requests from men for her hand in marriage…and we must remember that Elizabeth is third—not first—in line for the crown. Not only must she cope with that, she must also stay in her family’s favor as time goes on. She gets along fine with Edward when he is king, but she and Mary but heads over religion when Mary is queen. In fact, Mary gets so angry that she uses her power to send Elizabeth to the Tower because she won’t bend to her will. How is Elizabeth able to survive until 1558, the year she is finally able to accept the crown as her own?
This is a good, fast-paced story told from Elizabeth’s point of view. Ann Rinaldi does admit at the end that this is indeed her own interpretation of Elizabeth’s story and that there are probably more accurate accounts out there, but that her goal was to make a fun book about an interesting female figure based on historical events.
November 24, 2011
The whole time I was reading The Redheaded Princess, I kept thinking I had read it before. But no, that didn't seem quite right. Why was it so familiar? I do not read a lot of historical fiction so what had I read that dealt with this time period? I was flummoxed - until Lady Jane Grey became Queen. Ah, yes, I had read the 'story' from her perspective. After finishing the book, I read the Author's Note and discovered that Rinaldi had also penned that version of events. Ok. Now, it all makes sense. I have read about the time period and characters in a book by the same author!
The Redheaded Princess chronicles the life of Princess Elizabeth from early childhood until she becomes Queen Elizabeth I. We are privy to her hopes and dreams and her growth as she struggles and learns, sometimes the hard way, how to make her path and where to place her loyalties in this tumultuous time. Much more than a list of dates and description of events, The Redheaded Princess explores relationships. It explores how relatinships are or can be affected by power or the lack thereof. What does it mean to be Queen? What are the responsibilities that come with this power? How do the various characters handle the power they are given? These are some of the questions that we delve into alongside Elizabeth as she prepares to one day be Queen of England.
Rinaldi makes the history come to life on the page. She somehow manages to create characters we care about and relate to on some level. She takes an almost unknowable world and make sit feel like somewhere we have visited. Although, I guess in this case, I had!
Educational and entertaining - what more can we ask?
The Redheaded Princess chronicles the life of Princess Elizabeth from early childhood until she becomes Queen Elizabeth I. We are privy to her hopes and dreams and her growth as she struggles and learns, sometimes the hard way, how to make her path and where to place her loyalties in this tumultuous time. Much more than a list of dates and description of events, The Redheaded Princess explores relationships. It explores how relatinships are or can be affected by power or the lack thereof. What does it mean to be Queen? What are the responsibilities that come with this power? How do the various characters handle the power they are given? These are some of the questions that we delve into alongside Elizabeth as she prepares to one day be Queen of England.
Rinaldi makes the history come to life on the page. She somehow manages to create characters we care about and relate to on some level. She takes an almost unknowable world and make sit feel like somewhere we have visited. Although, I guess in this case, I had!
Educational and entertaining - what more can we ask?
May 13, 2013
As far as historical fiction for young adults is concerned, this is one of the best books I have read in quite a while. I actually have read extensively about Queen Elizabeth I’s reign, as I have a fascination for this particular time in British history. I found the book to be very well-researched and richly detailed. It is undoubtedly a good introduction to the historical fiction genre for the middle grades and above. I feel that the author, Ann Rinaldi, was able to capture the compelling and complex nature of the main character as an historical figure while speculating what it may have been like to grow up as the Redheaded Princess whose life and future were uncertain since the moment of her birth.
The story is told in a first-person narrative and Elizabeth's character is rendered very relatable and humane because of it. Students will see many nuances of her personality which they may identify with as teenagers. She is at the same time headstrong and confident as history depicts her, while also vulnerable and uncertain, even as she is quite aware that her position and power in society may lead her to be the future queen of England. As a cautionary note, there are many themes that may not be appropriate for younger readers (torture, beheadings and executions) occurrences these, that though real, may lead to difficult discussions. This is the first book I read by this author. She was recommended to me by my librarian for excellence in historical fiction for young adults and I have to agree with her. I will without a doubt seek out other books by her, in the hope that they may be as compelling and interesting as this novel.
The story is told in a first-person narrative and Elizabeth's character is rendered very relatable and humane because of it. Students will see many nuances of her personality which they may identify with as teenagers. She is at the same time headstrong and confident as history depicts her, while also vulnerable and uncertain, even as she is quite aware that her position and power in society may lead her to be the future queen of England. As a cautionary note, there are many themes that may not be appropriate for younger readers (torture, beheadings and executions) occurrences these, that though real, may lead to difficult discussions. This is the first book I read by this author. She was recommended to me by my librarian for excellence in historical fiction for young adults and I have to agree with her. I will without a doubt seek out other books by her, in the hope that they may be as compelling and interesting as this novel.
May 2, 2013
Nothing doing. I just have to say it, I've read quite a few Elizabeth books (both before and after she was crowned) and this one just didn't connect.
Okay, this may just be wrong and I'm completely off my rocker, but in every other version of history I've heard, Elizabeth did not spend her whole life thinking about what she would do "when she was Queen." It just felt like the author was trying to bring across the fact that she was "born ready to rule" or something, and it just felt off. Elizabeth was third in line for the crown, and she spent a large amount of her childhood cut out of that line altogether. I don't really think she spent the entire time dreaming about the day when she knew she would be Queen.
And, I have to say, there were just a few too many references to affairs and dreamy guys to really be enjoyable. It wasn't even good romance in any way shape or form, and yes everything is very much based on actual fact, but it still felt sort of dramatized. At the very least, one guy treated her poorly (nothing R rated, but slightly suggestive) - while married. He even claimed he only married the woman to get close to her. And then there's the other guy, who's also married and sending her flowers by the end . . .
Anyway, my advice? Don't read this book. If you want a good Queen Elizabeth book (or a book about any British royal!) just ask me. This one isn't going on the list.
Okay, this may just be wrong and I'm completely off my rocker, but in every other version of history I've heard, Elizabeth did not spend her whole life thinking about what she would do "when she was Queen." It just felt like the author was trying to bring across the fact that she was "born ready to rule" or something, and it just felt off. Elizabeth was third in line for the crown, and she spent a large amount of her childhood cut out of that line altogether. I don't really think she spent the entire time dreaming about the day when she knew she would be Queen.
And, I have to say, there were just a few too many references to affairs and dreamy guys to really be enjoyable. It wasn't even good romance in any way shape or form, and yes everything is very much based on actual fact, but it still felt sort of dramatized. At the very least, one guy treated her poorly (nothing R rated, but slightly suggestive) - while married. He even claimed he only married the woman to get close to her. And then there's the other guy, who's also married and sending her flowers by the end . . .
Anyway, my advice? Don't read this book. If you want a good Queen Elizabeth book (or a book about any British royal!) just ask me. This one isn't going on the list.
February 3, 2016
This is another Ann Rinaldi historical work, this one covering the early years of the woman who was to become Queen Elizabeth I, probably one of the most famous of all the English rulers. The story covers her very early years right up to the time when she becomes queen.
She received an extremely good education (especially for a time in history when education was not a high priority at all for most people). The book goes into the various dangers to her in her personal relationships, and shows the behind-the-thrones movements that were almost always in process in some kind or another.
It also shows just how savage a time it was in England, especially when Mary was having people burned alive at the stake just because they weren't Catholics. It was also very easy to get on the wrong side of a monarch, or of those supporting him or her, and end up being put in the Tower of London and then being executed.
It was also a time of filth, starvation and disease, and of widespread deaths due those factors. Those in power lived in splendor, and those not in power lived in poverty.
The very fact that Elizabeth managed to live long enough to become Queen, despite the physical dangers from both natural causes and man-made maneuvers, is a credit to her courage and internal strength. A very interesting book.
She received an extremely good education (especially for a time in history when education was not a high priority at all for most people). The book goes into the various dangers to her in her personal relationships, and shows the behind-the-thrones movements that were almost always in process in some kind or another.
It also shows just how savage a time it was in England, especially when Mary was having people burned alive at the stake just because they weren't Catholics. It was also very easy to get on the wrong side of a monarch, or of those supporting him or her, and end up being put in the Tower of London and then being executed.
It was also a time of filth, starvation and disease, and of widespread deaths due those factors. Those in power lived in splendor, and those not in power lived in poverty.
The very fact that Elizabeth managed to live long enough to become Queen, despite the physical dangers from both natural causes and man-made maneuvers, is a credit to her courage and internal strength. A very interesting book.
August 29, 2024
A book you could really read in a day, Ann Rinaldi has written a great, compact history of Elizabeth I. If I am honest, I would say I did not intend to read this book. I casually picked it up and read the first page and just did not stop. I have been a sucker for all things Tudor, especially Anne Boleyn and her daughter. What odds the little redhead faced in actually making it to the throne. It is a story that does not grow tiresome.
"Of course I knew I couldn't be Queen. No woman could ever rule over men in England. I had known that since I was three years old. But for days on end, I would sometimes pretend I was Queen." One of the greatest monarchs to have ever ruled any kingdom. Elizabeth's strength in isolation comes out time and time again in all genres of books about her life. Ann Rinaldi does a great job showing the isolation while being surrounded by many people. Staring death in the face many times, Elizabeth is loyal to a handful of people who are devoted to her no matter the cost. The book begins when she is nine and stops when she is told of her sister's death and her ascendancy to the throne. All of this time is covered in 208 small pages. If you like this period of history, this would be a great quick read or a small step into understanding more about Henry VIII's wives and children.
"Of course I knew I couldn't be Queen. No woman could ever rule over men in England. I had known that since I was three years old. But for days on end, I would sometimes pretend I was Queen." One of the greatest monarchs to have ever ruled any kingdom. Elizabeth's strength in isolation comes out time and time again in all genres of books about her life. Ann Rinaldi does a great job showing the isolation while being surrounded by many people. Staring death in the face many times, Elizabeth is loyal to a handful of people who are devoted to her no matter the cost. The book begins when she is nine and stops when she is told of her sister's death and her ascendancy to the throne. All of this time is covered in 208 small pages. If you like this period of history, this would be a great quick read or a small step into understanding more about Henry VIII's wives and children.
April 16, 2018
HISTORICAL NOVEL
This novel explores the childhood of Queen Elizabeth I. She grows up in unstable circumstances where she is constantly having to watch what she does or says in order to stay alive. She must not upset anyone that may have any chance whatsoever to sully her name or to influence others to get rid of her. She goes through many extremely difficult circumstances, including the deaths of many people close to her and constant threats on her on life, all while learning to become the queen she knows she will be one day.
I enjoyed reading this novel and learning from it. Rinaldi does a fantastic job of researching Elizabeth's life and providing an accurate yet interesting story. Though the novel starts off kind of slow, Rinaldi is able to teach things through this novel that people otherwise might not have remembered. I remember learning much of this in my high school history classes, but it wasn't until I read this book that Queen Elizabeth became interesting and that I began remembering details from her life that influenced her as a person and as a queen. I loved that Rinaldi was able to paint such an interesting picture that would be interesting to many people who otherwise are not interested in history.
This novel explores the childhood of Queen Elizabeth I. She grows up in unstable circumstances where she is constantly having to watch what she does or says in order to stay alive. She must not upset anyone that may have any chance whatsoever to sully her name or to influence others to get rid of her. She goes through many extremely difficult circumstances, including the deaths of many people close to her and constant threats on her on life, all while learning to become the queen she knows she will be one day.
I enjoyed reading this novel and learning from it. Rinaldi does a fantastic job of researching Elizabeth's life and providing an accurate yet interesting story. Though the novel starts off kind of slow, Rinaldi is able to teach things through this novel that people otherwise might not have remembered. I remember learning much of this in my high school history classes, but it wasn't until I read this book that Queen Elizabeth became interesting and that I began remembering details from her life that influenced her as a person and as a queen. I loved that Rinaldi was able to paint such an interesting picture that would be interesting to many people who otherwise are not interested in history.
June 3, 2014
About: Before Elizabeth was Queen she was a Princess and this is her story as one of England.
Pros: Learning history, and getting it to the story I loved that part! It is a shame of other stuff. the author writes well..
Cons: But she does not hide any vulgarities of history. I have had experience with her before and found her books although good including much to many BAD things (language, ahem romance, you get the point) from the history back then. In this book she does not hide anything from the true story..and does not try to lesson it by using different words\ways of telling us through the book. It is for that reason it only gets 2 stars.
Iffy: There is a lot of Iffy and I will try to tell you all of it. Many notes of "she committed adultery" , beheadings are mentioned. And E. endeavors in this whole romance in the book for a chapter or two which is very weird and then she is accused of "being" with him. There may be other things that i have forgotten. If this author just tried not to include every detail of her story....the book would be awesome because she is a really good author!
Pros: Learning history, and getting it to the story I loved that part! It is a shame of other stuff. the author writes well..
Cons: But she does not hide any vulgarities of history. I have had experience with her before and found her books although good including much to many BAD things (language, ahem romance, you get the point) from the history back then. In this book she does not hide anything from the true story..and does not try to lesson it by using different words\ways of telling us through the book. It is for that reason it only gets 2 stars.
Iffy: There is a lot of Iffy and I will try to tell you all of it. Many notes of "she committed adultery" , beheadings are mentioned. And E. endeavors in this whole romance in the book for a chapter or two which is very weird and then she is accused of "being" with him. There may be other things that i have forgotten. If this author just tried not to include every detail of her story....the book would be awesome because she is a really good author!
June 18, 2020
The year is 1542. Nine-year-old Elizabeth is aware of her destiny: she will one day be Queen of England. Her father Henry VIII alternately accepts and rejects her in court. The motherless Elizabeth is brought up by her nanny Catherine Ashley. An entire household of servants lives with her. Elizabeth is brave, intelligent, industrious , and scholarly; at age four she learned Latin! Elizabeth also learns to be wary and distrustful of people in court; their loyalties change quickly. Elizabeth watches and waits as her half-brother Edward VI becomes King, her cousin Lady Jane Grey becomes Queen (briefly) and her half-sister Mary rules England.
Most disturbing is the story of Lady Jane Grey; abused by her socially ambitious parents and surrounded by evil men, she is executed at age sixteen. Equally disturbing is the number of people put to death by Bloody Mary in the name of religion.
Readers who like the drama of the Tudor period will find this novel detailed and fascinating. This book of historical fiction is supported by an impressive bibliography.
Most disturbing is the story of Lady Jane Grey; abused by her socially ambitious parents and surrounded by evil men, she is executed at age sixteen. Equally disturbing is the number of people put to death by Bloody Mary in the name of religion.
Readers who like the drama of the Tudor period will find this novel detailed and fascinating. This book of historical fiction is supported by an impressive bibliography.
February 20, 2008
An easy read of a period of Elizabeth I's life not often studied. The book begins when Elizabeth is a child and ends when she is made Queen. In between, we learn of how she was a Princess one day and a "mere lady" the next, only to have her title and her place in the line of succession to England's throne returned to her, all at the whim of her father, Henry VIII. We hear of how she was treated when her brother Edward was King, and when her sister Mary was Queen, and how she observed the reigns of her father and siblings closely and took lessons from them that would help her when it was her turn to be Queen.
Although this book does little more than gloss over the turmoil of the time and the factions warring for the throne, this is a good book to read for anyone interested in a basic outline of what Elizabeth's life was like before she became Queen.
Although this book does little more than gloss over the turmoil of the time and the factions warring for the throne, this is a good book to read for anyone interested in a basic outline of what Elizabeth's life was like before she became Queen.
February 27, 2012
The Redheaded princess was a really exciting book to read, in my personal opinion. I thought that the way Elizabeth's character was portrayed added a nice layer of sympathy and emotion for her when something bad happened. Even though there was a good story line and interesting characters, the book lacked the ability to completely suck you in, and not let you stop reading until you finished. It seemed like the language was a little to simple for my reading level, but I'm not sure if it was because I'm used to reading more complex books, or if it was meant for a lower reading level. Even though this book was not amazing, it was definitely fun to read. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy historical fiction, but I would not recommend this book to people who have already read multiple books on the subject of Elizabeth I's life.
October 17, 2015
Young Elizabeth Tudor is Henry VII daughter, but he doesn't always act like it. Sometimes she's at court, as a princess should be. Other times, however, she's at a country house. At a young age, she was stripped of her title; she became Lady Elizabeth. Now, however, she's back in favor with her father. She has re-inherited her rights to the throne.
Then, her father dies. Her younger brother, Edward, inherits the throne. We are led through Elizabeth's life as her brother dies, the throne is given to Lady Jane Grey, Elizabeth's sister Mary takes the throne back again, Elizabeth is put in exile, she is almost beheaded, and she finally becomes queen. Through it all, Ms. Rinaldi weaves history and her story together masterfully, giving us a thoroughly enjoyable read that will keep readers on their toes. An excellent, fairly quick read. I would definitely recommend it!
July 6, 2008
Ann Rinaldi spins a tale of how Elizabeth I might have felt growing up and wondering if she will be queen someday.
Reading this book I had a strange sense of deja vu, like I had read another book that was remarkably similar to this book. I was slightly disappointed with this Ann Rinaldi book, I grew up reading her books and have always eagerly absorbed anything she has written, but this one was hard to get into. I didn't particularly care for the main character and didn't love the narrative. At the end I still wasn't impressed, but I didn't think it was a bad book either, so I'm not sure I'd highly recommend it.
*Taken from my book reviews blog: http://reviewsatmse.blogspot.com/2008...
Reading this book I had a strange sense of deja vu, like I had read another book that was remarkably similar to this book. I was slightly disappointed with this Ann Rinaldi book, I grew up reading her books and have always eagerly absorbed anything she has written, but this one was hard to get into. I didn't particularly care for the main character and didn't love the narrative. At the end I still wasn't impressed, but I didn't think it was a bad book either, so I'm not sure I'd highly recommend it.
*Taken from my book reviews blog: http://reviewsatmse.blogspot.com/2008...
March 14, 2009
First person retelling of Queen Elizabeth I, beginning when she was nine years old and subject to the whims of her father, Henry VIII, who was ill and dying. Her mother, Ann Boleyn, has been beheaded. Elizabeth and her half-sister, Mary, are in conflict over who is next in line for the throne after their half-brother, Edward.
The author conveys the complexities of these dangerous times and how easy it was to be sent to the Tower for beheading, even if you were a princess. Danger was everywhere and Elizabeth was constantly in fear for her life.
This would be a good companion piece, in a classroom, to the non-fiction work, "Behind the Mask: The Life of Queen Elizabeth I," by Jane Resh Thomas.
The author conveys the complexities of these dangerous times and how easy it was to be sent to the Tower for beheading, even if you were a princess. Danger was everywhere and Elizabeth was constantly in fear for her life.
This would be a good companion piece, in a classroom, to the non-fiction work, "Behind the Mask: The Life of Queen Elizabeth I," by Jane Resh Thomas.
November 25, 2011
What a fine time period, what a fine author! What a terrible disappointment! For a book by Ann Rinaldi, this lacked a lot of detail that I thought would be in the in the book. Besides there wasn't a lot of scenes where there was dialouge and action, most of it was one long monolouge of dates and facts without any break for an interesting subplot or SOMETHING. It seems she didn't know how to wrap her head around Elizabeth's character and motivations. However the book is as always accurate and well-researched. Other books that I recommend about the Tudor period that I liked better are PATIENCE, PRINCESS CATHERINE, DOOMED QUEEN ANNE, MARY,BLOODY,MARY, BEWARE PRINCESS ELIZABETH all by Carolyn Meyer and NINE DAYS A QUEEN by Ann Rinaldi.
September 12, 2010
A student gave this a high recommendation, so I was let down by this book. I felt that the story dragged on and on rather than having clear episodes with highs and lows. This is probably due to the fact that it was about a real person and real life is structured however it turns out, but still, it impacted my enjoyment of the story. I didn't feel motivated to keep going. I was surprised that the story covered such a large span of time. If I didn't have any prior knowledge about the royal family, I think I would have been more confused than I already was at times. I did enjoy Elizabeth's character and learning more about her. I was surprised at some of the shocking details about the throne succession that I hadn't known before.
October 23, 2008
Although Elizabeth's story is an interesting and passionate one, Rinaldi's writing fell flat for me. At many points I felt like I was reading a history book (and not in a good way). I also had trouble getting a sense of time in the book. Years would pass without any indication, leaving me confused about how old Elizabeth was at certain points. We all know how the story ends: Elizabeth becomes queen. While I truly felt Elizabeth's desire to become queen, all the rest of her emotions were told and not seen. The characters were just not captivating enough to bring the story to life as it could have been.
January 24, 2009
I pretty much read this in one afternoon. I really like Ann Rinaldi's books even though I'm feeling I've begun to outgrow them. This was similar to her others. A strong female narrator. Characters that are enjoyable and you can understand their positions. There is something to think on. This is set in England though, unlike most of her books that are set in the United States.
I was interested in reading an alternative view of Elizabeth, to The Virgin's Lover which was so horrible. I was a little disappointed because The Redheaded Princess ends when she becomes princess and doesn't go on to anything that happened while she was in power.
I was interested in reading an alternative view of Elizabeth, to The Virgin's Lover which was so horrible. I was a little disappointed because The Redheaded Princess ends when she becomes princess and doesn't go on to anything that happened while she was in power.
May 17, 2015
Recommended Ages: grades 6-8
Growing up, Elizabeth fears she can never be Queen. Although she is the King's daughter, no woman can ever hope to rule over men in England, especially when her mother has been executed for treason.
For all her royal blood, Elizabeth's life is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Sometimes she is welcome in the royal court; other times she is cast out into the countryside. With her position constantly changing, the Princess must navigate a sea of shifting loyalties and dangerous affections. At stake is her life—for beheading is not uncommon among the factions that war for the Crown.
Growing up, Elizabeth fears she can never be Queen. Although she is the King's daughter, no woman can ever hope to rule over men in England, especially when her mother has been executed for treason.
For all her royal blood, Elizabeth's life is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Sometimes she is welcome in the royal court; other times she is cast out into the countryside. With her position constantly changing, the Princess must navigate a sea of shifting loyalties and dangerous affections. At stake is her life—for beheading is not uncommon among the factions that war for the Crown.
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