Here is the latest book review, by our 14 year old daughter! Like she mentions below, it definitely was a bit tough for her to understand, especially in the beginning of the story. The beginning goes through a lot of the actual history of what was the French Revolution. However, this is a great way to introduce history to children in a fun and entertaining way. Although many of the details of the French Revolution may have escaped her notice or comprehension, minimally the next time she hears about the French Revolution she will be familiar with the subject matter and be able to better understand more details the second time through listening.
I hope you enjoy this review!
Review
In the Reign of Terror was a very good book written about The Reign of Terror in France. The book starts off talking about an English family who has received a letter asking their 16 year old son, Harry, to come to France to study and teach a French family how English boys were taught. The family he would be staying with is with the Marquis de St. Caux along with his wife, two sons, and three daughters. Harry’s family is a little hesitant at first, because they have heard rumors about the French Assembly and fighting starting to happen in France. Nevertheless, his parents decide to send him because of the benefits.
Harry quickly adapts to his new life and finds it rather enjoyable. He learns French very quickly and partakes in all of their schooling there. He also goes on many hunting trips and becomes popular within the family he is staying with. Then, things begin to worsen in Paris, and mobs start attacking anyone of nobility. This worries the Marquis and he decides to travel to Paris with the whole family, saying their place is beside the king.
Things only get worse from there. The lower class people issue a warrant for the arrest of anyone of nobility, which includes the St. Caux family. The families caretaker takes off with the the two sons in disguise, while Harry stays with the three sisters and the mother’s old nurse. The Marquis and his wife stay at the house, and are arrested. Harry and the three sisters endure much pain and loss, and even after the war, things will never be the same.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and although slow at the start, by the end had me captivated and entertained. It was a little confusing at times, especially when the fighting started, but was very eventful and was overall a great book. I liked how the author taught me a lot about the French Revolution, but also told me an engaging story that got me hooked. I would highly recommend this book to people who like historical fiction, but also to people who love action.
