Victoria: Portrait of a Queen

My grandson who is 12 is an avid reader, and he is often looking for good books about women in history. He noted there were many books about male heroes and men in history. I was excited to read this book with him. We read the book separately and then compared notes. We both enjoyed this book, my grandson more than I . He has not studied the history of Queen Victoria, and he will now be a step up from his classmates. This book was well written, although I do think the book was written down for young adults. The film that is out now about Queen Victoria reveals much of what is in this book, and I am anxious to see the film. My grandson was intrigued with the life of the Queen, and her time in life. He is familiar with Queen Elizabeth and her history, and he compared them both. The illustrations and photos really help to make reading this book an exciting experience. I think they give this book an extra edge. Recommended. prisrob 01-09-18

Although written for young people (aged 12 and up), adults will also enjoy this short history of Queen Victoria's life. It gives a well rounded overview without going into all the minute details that sometimes bog down heftier biographies. Pulling from her diaries and letters as well as historical records, it's a great introduction to the life of a fascinating and complex sovereign, wife, mother, and woman. The illustrations and photographs are also a welcome enhancement to the text.

Purchased this book for my 5th grader and her research paper on Victoria. It was a little much for her. Totally readable, but difficult to reduce to topics, keyword outlines, and to synthesize into an essay. Perhaps more of a biography for a teen or adult.

it's a light overview with lots of photos and paintings which helps. I learned a lot, mostly that the PBS series takes a lot of liberties with the facts.

Not dry very interesting writting

I have 5 different books on Queen Victoria & her children. Let's say "Im Hooked on the suject!!!) I suppose if this is the 1st book you read on her it's fine, otherwise don't bother with this overly simplistic childrens book. ( It's not meant for adults, my fault for not reading description well!) I started with the Victoria book based on the Masterpiece Theater Series ( Which was great), then moved on to several other very good biographies on her & her children. If you have a young child or possibly a "Tween" who shows interest in the subject, then this is a good start. It is so very basic it reads like a bedtime story.