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The Tudor Tutor: Your Cheeky Guide to the Dynasty
From the bloody Wars of the Roses to Queen Elizabeth I’s iconic rule, the Tudor Dynasty was a period of sex, scandal, and intrigue. Monarchs such as Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I have become a part of modern pop culture, resulting in endless parodies, satires, rumors, and urban legends that grace our television screens. But like all urban legends and parodies, facts surrounding the lives of these rulers are greatly exaggerated. In this entertaining guide, Barb Alexander serves to debunk those rumors and educate you about the dynasty.History doesn’t have to be dry, boring, and difficult to read. As an educator, Barb knows exactly how to engage an audience. This pocket-sized guide is not only informative, but also filled with cheek, snark, and wit. With 50 beautiful illustrations that depict Tudor monarchs and key players during their rule, this book is guaranteed to garner a chuckle or two. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the lesson. Before long, you’ll be sharing Tudor history facts that will be sure to impress your less informed peers.Skyhorse Publishing, as well as our Arcade imprint, are proud to publish a broad range of books for readers interested in history--books about World War II, the Third Reich, Hitler and his henchmen, the JFK assassination, conspiracies, the American Civil War, the American Revolution, gladiators, Vikings, ancient Rome, medieval times, the old West, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.
141 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
171 people are currently reading
964 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 108 reviews
March 12, 2020
This was a very fun and entertaining read! I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about the Tudor period but feel overwhelmed about where to start. This is a quick and accessible introduction with a great sense of humour!
May 31, 2016
Those active in the Tudor online community are probably familiar with Barb Alexander’s “The Tudor Tutor” in which she presents Tudor history lessons in a sassy and witty way making it ‘fun’ and accessible. Alexander offers her knowledge for the first time in print-form in, “The Tudor Tutor: Your Cheeky Guide to the Dynasty”.
“The Tudor Tutor” is a slim volume offering a quick overview of the main topics in Tudor history. Imagine Alexander’s angle as bullet points or a play off her blog/site but written in a more narrative way. The pace flows easily and quickly, resulting in a fast read. “The Tudor Tutor” can be described as a “history-beach read”.
Alexander infuses “The Tudor Tutor” with humor and charm which is the reason behind her internet fame resulting in a few chuckles from the reader. There are some evident moments, however, where it is obvious that Alexander tries too hard to be funny which can be tiresome. Certainly do not expect an in-depth scholarly read with “The Tudor Tutor”. It teaches history but not in a credible, academic way.
Elaborating on this lack of depth, “The Tutor Tudor” is a ‘fun’ read but it doesn’t present any new information or offer any new angles to those familiar with the topic. Alexander’s work is best suited for those seeing a quick doctor’s office book inducing a few smiles. “The Tutor Tudor” is very much a blog in print form. Don’t misunderstand – it is not bad- it simply is very light so one has to merely take it for what it is.
Illustrator Lisa Graves adds some entertainment to “The Tudor Tutor” with colorful, hand-drawn illustrations. Although these are accurately based on historical paintings; even these have a hint of humor/snark (an occasional side glance or smirk on a figure’s face) which supplements Alexander’s text appropriately plus solidifies the information discussed with the reader.
Alexander does have the flaw of sometimes “crossing the line” with her descriptions, meaning that during her attempts to be comedic, Alexander can be offensive to those historical figures discussed or is biased in nature (against them). This isn’t overly harsh but still appears slightly childish. On the other hand, Alexander often ends paragraphs with questions which encourage readers to interpret the reading and encourages after -thoughts and personal research.
Despite my complaints, “The Tudor Tutor” is certainly entertaining and is a “cute” way to learn history. Plus, Alexander never claims to be an expert, doesn’t act elitist, and isn’t called a professional. Some other authors in the same realm (I’m talking about you, Susan Bordo) whom pen humorous history takes claim to be experts when they are FAR from it. Alexander doesn’t go down that path, keeping humility and not displaying any attitude or airs. Well done, Alexander!
“The Tudor Tutor” ends strongly with a somewhat lesser-discussed factoid (Stuart vs. Stewart spelling) which leaves on a memorable note. Alexander also offers a timeline of Tudor dynasty events and a light list of sources for further reading.
“The Tudor Tutor” is a humorous and indeed ‘cheeky’ look at the Tudor reign. Although light and not academic; it is a good introduction to those new to the topic or would fit well as a supplement to an exhibit. However, it is not necessarily suggested for those well-versed on the topic unless one is searching for a laugh. Again, don’t misunderstand my complaints: “The Tudor Tutor” is a fun ‘guide’. I am merely saying that is all it is so don’t expect anything more.
“The Tudor Tutor” is a slim volume offering a quick overview of the main topics in Tudor history. Imagine Alexander’s angle as bullet points or a play off her blog/site but written in a more narrative way. The pace flows easily and quickly, resulting in a fast read. “The Tudor Tutor” can be described as a “history-beach read”.
Alexander infuses “The Tudor Tutor” with humor and charm which is the reason behind her internet fame resulting in a few chuckles from the reader. There are some evident moments, however, where it is obvious that Alexander tries too hard to be funny which can be tiresome. Certainly do not expect an in-depth scholarly read with “The Tudor Tutor”. It teaches history but not in a credible, academic way.
Elaborating on this lack of depth, “The Tutor Tudor” is a ‘fun’ read but it doesn’t present any new information or offer any new angles to those familiar with the topic. Alexander’s work is best suited for those seeing a quick doctor’s office book inducing a few smiles. “The Tutor Tudor” is very much a blog in print form. Don’t misunderstand – it is not bad- it simply is very light so one has to merely take it for what it is.
Illustrator Lisa Graves adds some entertainment to “The Tudor Tutor” with colorful, hand-drawn illustrations. Although these are accurately based on historical paintings; even these have a hint of humor/snark (an occasional side glance or smirk on a figure’s face) which supplements Alexander’s text appropriately plus solidifies the information discussed with the reader.
Alexander does have the flaw of sometimes “crossing the line” with her descriptions, meaning that during her attempts to be comedic, Alexander can be offensive to those historical figures discussed or is biased in nature (against them). This isn’t overly harsh but still appears slightly childish. On the other hand, Alexander often ends paragraphs with questions which encourage readers to interpret the reading and encourages after -thoughts and personal research.
Despite my complaints, “The Tudor Tutor” is certainly entertaining and is a “cute” way to learn history. Plus, Alexander never claims to be an expert, doesn’t act elitist, and isn’t called a professional. Some other authors in the same realm (I’m talking about you, Susan Bordo) whom pen humorous history takes claim to be experts when they are FAR from it. Alexander doesn’t go down that path, keeping humility and not displaying any attitude or airs. Well done, Alexander!
“The Tudor Tutor” ends strongly with a somewhat lesser-discussed factoid (Stuart vs. Stewart spelling) which leaves on a memorable note. Alexander also offers a timeline of Tudor dynasty events and a light list of sources for further reading.
“The Tudor Tutor” is a humorous and indeed ‘cheeky’ look at the Tudor reign. Although light and not academic; it is a good introduction to those new to the topic or would fit well as a supplement to an exhibit. However, it is not necessarily suggested for those well-versed on the topic unless one is searching for a laugh. Again, don’t misunderstand my complaints: “The Tudor Tutor” is a fun ‘guide’. I am merely saying that is all it is so don’t expect anything more.
February 7, 2017
A breezy history of the Tudors for fourteen year olds who like history and don't know anything about the Tudors yet.
June 30, 2017
Okish. Not unlike my HS rundown of the Tudors: mildly humorous (with the attempt stronger than the output), mostly accurate, and missing a whole lot of nuance and information.
October 11, 2021
This cheeky historical read of the 16th century was wonderful! Who knew such modern day spins could be put on Henry VIII’s life!?
February 9, 2017
Sorry, not for me. Almost DNFed. Too basic for beginners and too bloody patronising for anyone else. And the overexaggerated Americanism got on my last nerve. Not my cup of tea at all, which is disappointing, as I enjoy "The Tudor Tutor" on social media.
January 17, 2021
I absolutely loved this entertaining yet informative light guide. The illustrations are phenomenal. Perfect for anyone who loves all things Tudor.
August 20, 2022
This is a super cute, super fast read. As its subtitle suggests, it is very cheeky, and presents the Tudor dynasty in a fun and easy to understand way. Great overview, but even I learned something I’d never read before. Enjoyable book!
February 7, 2017
A quick and easy read to give you a basic history lesson on the Tudor Dynasty. You can read it in one sitting.
January 13, 2016
The illustrations are my favorite part of the book, and they really are gorgeous, though unfortunately unlabelled, so there's a good deal of guessing as to who or what they are. Overall, I found this a bit disappointing, as I had quite high hopes going in.
September 5, 2015
A quick read that was entertaining and quite cheeky. Puts different pieces of the dynasty into perspective.
February 22, 2016
Fun read over one of the most intriguing English dynasty's.
December 10, 2022
A short and funny intro the Tudor dynasty - history books can be a snore sometimes (and I’m a huge fan of history!), so it was a good time reading this to learn the basics of one of the most notorious English royal families. Everything was described well and in terms and sentences that were easy to follow, and I learned a lot as someone who wanted more info after reading a few MG fictional accounts as a kid on Elizabeth I. I will say if you know quite a bit about the Tudors, you can skip this one - it really is an intro that gives the bare bones about the family for people like me who didn’t know a lot of the facts before reading. I’m excited to hopefully get into some chunkier biographies about the Tudors at some point, especially about Elizabeth. Read for Book Riot Read Harder challenge: a history about a period you know little about.
March 14, 2018
I quick and easy read about the Tutors. It was a good review for me of the Tudors and all of the important persons who influenced them, especially the many Thomas'. I thought it was pretty accurate too. I liked reading all of the highlights. And, her lists of possibilities for many of the historic details were interesting. For example, why did Elizabeth choose to not marry: she was aware that a male would undermine her power; wife meant motherhood and she knew the health risks of that since so many women died in childbirth; choosing a mate would mean choosing Catholic or Protestant when she wanted to stay neutral; marriage had not worked out for her mother or stepmothers; finally, the right guy had not come along (Robert Dudley was already married.) Did Elizabeth think through all of these points??? Who knows, but I like the logic.
July 21, 2020
Cheeky is definitely the right word to use. Also tongue-in-cheek, flippant and sarcastic.
A speedy look at the Tudors from Henry Tudor overthrew Richard III to become Henry the VII through an introduction of James the First of England who took the throne from his deceased cousin, Elizabeth I and started the Stuart line of kings. The kings, their queens and important ministers/councilors to the royalty.
The illuminations were well done but I would have appreciated a note identifying who or where it was supposed to be without having to constantly refer back to the listing of illustrations at the front of the book.
2020-138
A speedy look at the Tudors from Henry Tudor overthrew Richard III to become Henry the VII through an introduction of James the First of England who took the throne from his deceased cousin, Elizabeth I and started the Stuart line of kings. The kings, their queens and important ministers/councilors to the royalty.
The illuminations were well done but I would have appreciated a note identifying who or where it was supposed to be without having to constantly refer back to the listing of illustrations at the front of the book.
2020-138
May 24, 2017
This was such a fun book! As someone who loves the Tudor time period, I knew much of the information. However, the author, Barb Alexander, has given us the history of this time period in a fresh and funny way. Filled with little known facts, this light-hearted account of the Tudors made me laugh out loud. Her condensed account of each of Henry's six wives made them individuals instead of a group. Or is that a gaggle of wives? I'm not sure. If you love the Tudors and all of their inconsistencies and foibles, you'll love "The Tudor Tutor."
August 17, 2017
Want to know a little more about Henry VIII and his six wives? Want to know how he found himself heir to the throne? Want to know who Cardinal Wolsey was? Or Lady Jane Grey? A romp through this fun and informative little book will tell you all of that---and much more. Although it's a fairly thin volume, it is highly informational and does a great job of bringing the principal players of the Tudor era to life.
Entertaining too, and with fun illustrations as well. If you are fascinated by Tudor history, you will really enjoy this book.
Entertaining too, and with fun illustrations as well. If you are fascinated by Tudor history, you will really enjoy this book.
April 6, 2021
What a fun and educational read! The subtitle says it all, "Your Cheeky Guide to the Dynasty." The author's interest in the Tudor Dynasty shines through along with the fact that she is a teacher. She hits all the high points of the family with wit and and understanding of the times and human nature. Her book took me a back a lifetime ago when I also had a high school history teacher who loved English history. It was my most memorable class. Everyone should be so lucky to have great enthusiastic teachers.
July 5, 2021
I recommend this book to anyone interested in English history and the Tudors.
This book dotted all of the I's and crossed all of the T's for me with regard to the who, what, when and wheres of the Tudor dynasty. It came as no surprise that so many people were executed during that time Some of those executed were very young by our standards today though not for the time period.They went to their deaths with acceptance and grace; which I find to be entirely admirable. Thank you for this book!
This book dotted all of the I's and crossed all of the T's for me with regard to the who, what, when and wheres of the Tudor dynasty. It came as no surprise that so many people were executed during that time Some of those executed were very young by our standards today though not for the time period.They went to their deaths with acceptance and grace; which I find to be entirely admirable. Thank you for this book!
March 17, 2020
I knew going into this that I wouldn’t learn much since I already know a lot about the Tudors. Still, I expected to enjoy my reading. However, I really disliked the way it was written. I guess I just wasn’t the right target for this. 🤷🏻♀️ If you don’t know much about the Tudors already, this might be helpful; if unlike me, you can get over the bad attempt at humour and exaggerated popularization.
July 9, 2021
This was an interesting, fun read. There were bits and meaningful pieces of the Tutors, their families, and the times.I have read books on Henry VIII and even though the were long and protracted, I enjoyed them This Tutor book was very readable, gave me laughs and realistic sadness.
The whole book was in bite-size pieces that made reading it fun, while bringing back the times of the 1500s up to the Gloriana reign. I will keep close and read again.
The whole book was in bite-size pieces that made reading it fun, while bringing back the times of the 1500s up to the Gloriana reign. I will keep close and read again.
August 10, 2018
This charmingly illustrated book is the perfect way to introduce a young person to the Tudor Dynasty, giving them enough to get a basic picture of that royal family and suggestions on points that might make for additional research. It is a light introductory book, written with humour; if you're looking for an academic history, this isn't it. The illustrations add a little extra character.
September 17, 2018
3.5. It’s a decent overview of the entire dynasty with a family tree and beautiful illustrations. But it often felt like she was sacrificing accuracy for humor or for efficiency. Sometimes the facts felt so skewed that they sounded wrong, which I knew because of how in depth I’ve read on the tudors. Clear bias but decent discussion on the whole.
April 3, 2020
Brava! My kind of historien!
The Tudors in a nutshell. Written with a great lot of humor, the fastslår are clear, and I now have what I need of the Tudor periode , and can leave the in-depth studies to Thorsen that need it for their doctoral disputations etc. I love history when it is presented that way. Thank you for a splendid book!
The Tudors in a nutshell. Written with a great lot of humor, the fastslår are clear, and I now have what I need of the Tudor periode , and can leave the in-depth studies to Thorsen that need it for their doctoral disputations etc. I love history when it is presented that way. Thank you for a splendid book!
November 17, 2021
Firmly tongue in cheek, this book offers a slightly less serious take on the Tudor Dynasty.
It is a good succinct summary of that era - it doesn't attempt to provide an in-depth portrayal of individuals, rather an overview.
If only history books were more like that in school, I am sure more people will be embracing them more willingly.
It is a good succinct summary of that era - it doesn't attempt to provide an in-depth portrayal of individuals, rather an overview.
If only history books were more like that in school, I am sure more people will be embracing them more willingly.
March 16, 2017
Just a quick, waiting-for-a-library-book read. This is an easily digestible nonfiction introduction to the Tudor kings and queens, great for beginners or if you are looking for a quick review. I'm brushing up on my English history in preparation for a trip this summer.
October 12, 2017
This is definitely NOT your usual boring and stuffy book about the history of the Tudors!
The author teaches the history of the Tudors with a sense of humor making the book very readable and lighthearted even if the situation wasn't!
Very enjoyable!
The author teaches the history of the Tudors with a sense of humor making the book very readable and lighthearted even if the situation wasn't!
Very enjoyable!
January 1, 2018
Gift from Kathy F... Short descriptions and portraits of Tudor royals, from Henry VII to Elisabeth I. Accurate, plus some humor. It's an easy reference to all those, as well as a timeline of applicable dates.
January 7, 2018
I love everything Tudors, and this book was a fun overview. I appreciate that it didn't attempt to play favorites or overly villainize anyone, but rather portrays both their good and bad sides equally.
If you want a fun and quick overview of the Tudors, this is definitely the book for you.
If you want a fun and quick overview of the Tudors, this is definitely the book for you.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 108 reviews