May 2010

Author/s: Marie-Louise Jensen
Publisher: Oxford University Press UK
Reviewed by: Shelby Thomson Age: 15
ISBN 13: 9780192755315

For an inside look on some of the ways children (especially girls) were treated in the 1500’s and maybe even how the girls truly felt when they found out they were to be betrothed. This book also teaches teens a wonderful lesson, that wealth and happiness aren’t necessarily the same thing.

I did enjoy the book. In the past, Marie-Louise Jensen has had an incredible way of capturing my attention and this one was no different. However, I didn’t enjoy the bad language she used describe to Eleanor’s feelings. Eleanor loves horses, especially her horse that her father, Sir Walter gave her for her eleventh birthday. Unlike many of the betrothed 15 year old girl, Eleanor, tries to stop the wedding, causing a lot of heartbreak and misfortune on her family. Join Eleanor and her friends that she meets along the way for a fun-filled read with many surprises, some dangerous adventures and even a wedding or two!

Some of Eleanor’s escapes from the castle were so realistic; it felt as if I was there. I thought it special how even though her mother had been locked up for four years Eleanor still had the same respect for her.

I highly recommend this book to other children my age and think that it is suitable from thirteen and up.

Link to online catalogue
The Lady in the Tower