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I thought that The Raucous Royals was a wonderful read, and I would highly recommend it for older students. It approached history and infamous rumors regarding the royal family in a light and humorous way that engaged me from beginning to end. It included activities throughout the book to break up the text, but it also provided accurate and historical information in a way that didn't feel like a monotonous history lesson. The illustrations were engaging but not too overpowering that they took away from the text. I think this would be a great book to read when learning about European history. It would be easy to break up into sections, and it would give students context to look forward to. ( )

The author approaches the topic by introducing each royal by some myth, legend, or fact about who they were. Then information is presented that either supports or dispels the statement. Throughout the book the author challenges the reader to solve puzzles or make decisions about a statement by using and comparing information they are given. The writing is witty and fun to read. ( )

Did Anne Boleyn really have six fingers? Was Henry VIII so fat he had to be carried? Beccia presents the evidence for and against various royal rumors and you, the reader, pick out the truth!

I'd recommend this book to followers of celebrity gossip (some things never change!) lovers of code and mystery, history buffs, and students learning to research in any subject. The afterword explaining how to "research a rumor" is an excellent tutorial for testing fact against fiction and tracking down interesting nuggets of information.

The fascination continues on Beccia's website, where you can find reading recommendations and interesting tidbits about the book you may have missed on a first reading.

Verdict: An actual interesting history book! There's a good chance you'll get kids to read this without coercion - buy it!

ISBN: 978-0618891306; Published September 2008 by Houghton Mifflin; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

Really interesting book with truths about history. Show a glimpse into the life of Royalty. Really good illustrations. ( )