ELEANOR THE QUEEN

An expertly fictionalized biography of Eleanor of Aquitaine by a well seasoned author whose adult historical fiction has included The Lute Player (1951) which expanded the theme of Richard I's marriage to Berengaria and the following political struggles in which Eleanor played her part. Starting at the point when Eleanor as the propertied young Duchess of Aquitaine marries young Louis of France, the narrative hero continues as colorful and critical reportage. Grasping much of the length and breadth of French and British history, there is a complete follow through on Eleanor's activities and thoughts. Determined and naturally active, she was challenged rather than stymied by the social and political barriers presented to her especially as a woman. The very moving things that happened to her- the Crusade, her second marriage to Henry, the 16 years of imprisonment that followed the death of his mistress Rosamond, the aid she gave their son, Richard, in establishing his rights- all these are given life in vivid dialogue that sketches personalities and uncovers the motives for their acts. Exemplary of the depth to which good writing for young adults should go.