I’ve decided I want to do a few weekly or biweekly features on this tumblr, starting with a book spotlight! This might include books I’ve already read or reviewed, but it will also include entirely new books. First up:
Book Spotlight: Moi and Marie Antoinette by Lynn Cullen
This is a very charming picture book, told from the perspective of Marie Antoinette’s pug. The book begins as a young Marie Antoinette is told she is going to leave Austria and become the dauphine of France. Antoinette and her pet are thrown into the strange life at French court, which leaves Antoinette with no privacy, no fun, and - as the dog laments - no time to pay any attention to him! Will she ever play with him again?The story takes some leaps with history, and does not go into particulars about the French Revolution or anything more than a general unhappiness for Marie Antoinette and the dog, but there is a short summary of her life at the end that handles her fate in a sensitive way. The book also deals well with the fact that money, jewels, dresses, and material things don’t bring happiness.
The art is quirky and cute, coupled with the dog’s perspective to make an entertaining and witty little read. I think if you enjoy Marie Antoinette in fiction you will like this book, whether you’re reading it with someone young or just enjoying it on your own!
Where you can find it: Moi and Marie Antoinette is currently available in paperback or hardcover binding at most major book retailers - however you’re more likely to find it online than in a physical store. Current prices place it at $8-15 after shipping.