Waiting for the Queen: A Novel of Early America - YA Review by Grace KL


Reader: Grace KL
Age: 14
Title: Waiting for the Queen: A Novel of Early America
Author: Joanna Higgins
Publisher: Milkweed Editions
Pub Date: 09/15/13
Galley: Yes
Top 25: No
Convince us to read the book: This book began as an intriguing idea. The setting is Azilum, a settlement in Pennsylvania that was a refuge for French nobles fleeing the revolution. However, the writing disappointed. The dialogue seemed forced, and at times did not seem historically accurate, though I'm no expert. Also, several of the minor characters seemed to only exist at the convenience of the main characters. One good thing about the book was Eugenie's character development. She changes drastically, yet believably, from the the beginning of the book to the end.
Memorable or Forgettable: One memorable thing about this book is the context. The fact that French nobles came to America was something I had never heard of, and learning how that came about was interesting. Other than that, the book did not have any memorable qualities.
Cover: The book's cover doesn't really have much to do with the book, other than it being a painting from the time or in the style of the time. It did clearly show that the book is historical fiction, which encouraged me to pick it up because I enjoy that genre.
Age Range: 12 through 15
Quality: 3Q Readable
Popularity: 2P Only for special interest

tags:  coming of age / French Revolution / Quakers / slavery / historical fiction / ya lit



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