CLEOPATRA

1.Bibliography

Stanley, Diane and Peter Vennema. 1994. CLEOPATRA. Ill. by Diane Stanley. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688104142

2. Plot Summary

This beautiful book chronicles the life and times of one of Egypt's most famous rulers, Queen Cleopatra. As ruler, Cleopatra lived in a world of splendor, wealth, and education, for Alexandria was a center of learning. It was Cleopatra's goal to unite the world under Egypt's rule. At the height of her power, she came close to accomplishing her goal. However, Rome, too was a mighty force. In her efforts to unite these two kingdoms, Cleopatra won the affections of two of Rome's most memorable rulers. Both men lost their lives as a result of their love for Cleopatra. In the end, Rome was victorious in defeating the Egyptian army and it is commonly believed that Cleopatra took her own life rather than submit her throne to a foreign ruler.

3. Critical Analysis

The most important aspect of any historical work, even biographies, is accuracy. Diane Stanley begins this book with a preface detailing the time in which Cleopatra ruled. This preface gives the reader a cultural backdrop for the ensuing story and also provides some interesting and uncommon facts about Cleopatra herself. For example, most people believe that Cleopatra lived in the time of the Pharaohs and the building of the great pyramids. In fact, “when she was born, in 69 B.C., the pyramids had already been standing for more than twenty-five hundred years” (Stanley, 1994). Likewise, the assumption that the Queen of Egypt was an Egyptian is also false. “Cleopatra was Macedonian Greek, the last of the Ptolemies (Stanley, 1994). Stanley honestly points out, however, that much of what we know about this famous Queen was written by the Greek historian Plutarch more than 100 years after her death. Therefore, the information contained within these pages is as accurate as historically possible, but may still be influenced by the propaganda and biases of the time.

This story of Cleopatra is written as a simple prose narrative, however, the style captures and brings to life the intelligent and charming ruler. The pages are filled with descriptions, not only of the Queen, but of those who loved her as well as those who hated or even feared her. It is a story about the people who influenced or were influenced by this charismatic leader. This personable style is an essential part of what makes this such a likable and compelling story.

Finally, the illustrations in this work are magnificent. They are detailed, ornate, and the brilliant colors capture the wealth and decadence of the Egyptian court. Stanley's creative use of mosaic tiles is especially appealing. Overall, while the people themselves do not appear lifelike, the illustrations do succeed in bringing to life the wealthy, art-filled world of ancient Egypt.

4. Review Excerpts

Publishers Weekly: This peerless author/artist team makes the captivating... Cleopatra seem astoundingly real

Horn Book Guide: The authors have succeeded brilliantly in bringing the power and magnificence of Cleopatra and her world to life. Her compelling story is told in a simple, straightforward text, often focusing on episodes and details of interest to young readers, and carefully pointing out still-unresolved ambiguities in the source materials.

School Library Journal: In this lively, well-crafted biography, Stanley and Vennema brush the cobwebs from the popularly held portrait of Cleopatra to reveal a vital, warm, and politically adroit ruler. Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative.

5. Connections

* Other books about Cleopatra
YOU WOULDN'T WANT TO BE CLEOPATRA! AN EGYPTIAN RULER YOU'D RATHER NOT BE by Jim Pipe
CLEOPATRA: THE LIFE OF AN EGYPTIAN QUEEN by Gary Jeffrey
CLEOPATRA: EGYPTS LAST PHARAOH by Don Nardo

* Other books about Queens
GOOD QUENN BESS: THE STORY OF ELIZABETH I OF ENGLAND by Peter Vennema
TEN QUEENS: PORTRAITS OF WOMEN OF POWER by Milton Meltzer
HATSHEPSUT: THE PRINCESS WHO BECAME KING by Ellen Galford

* Other books about strong women in history
JACKIE KENNEDY ONASSIS: WOMAN OF COURAGE by Catherine Corley Anderson
WHEN I WAS A GIRL by Alison Pollet
FAMOUS WOMEN: FROM NEFERTITI TO DIANA by Richard Dungworth