Libby, Alisa M. The King’s Rose. Dutton. 2009. ISBN: 978-0-525-47970-3. Gr 8 and up.
-- School Library Journal, 6/3/2009
This unique historical fiction book tells the story of Catherine Howard. Catherine is just a girl of 15 when she marries King Henry. Although the story takes place so long ago, the reader still feels connected to Catherine and to all of the characters, as if the story were happening today. Readers will feel sympathy for her. Throughout the whole book, Catherine is told what to do, and she’s never able to decide anything for herself. When everyone finds out about her past and her affair with Thomas Culpepper, she is left out to dry. Even her own family doesn't protect her.
The title and the cover, showing a girl holding a rose, will intrigue readers. Even the font fits with the time period. Though readers who know history will know what happens to Catherine Howard in the end, they will still be glued to the book. The writing is very descriptive, especially about the gowns and jewels that Catherine wears.The relationship portrayed between Catherine and Thomas is amazing because of how much they loved each other, even though they could never truly be together because Catherine was married to the King. The part with Anne Boleyn at the end is especially interesting. Because she and Catherine are cousins they share a bond, and they are the only two of King Henry's queens to be executed. Another interesting thing about the book is that it showed a different side to King Henry, how being a king changed him into a person who, even though he is king, really isn't allowed to make any decisions for himself. A lot of what he does is horrible, but readers can feel some sympathy for him.
This wonderful book will appeal to all kinds of teens. It has the perfect mix of romance, history, and all of the makings of greatness. Most teens don't look twice at historical fiction, but the way this book combines history with an appealing story will attract them.—Megan R., age 15
