Annotation:
A list of instructions for a young Princess given to her by her mother. This list of instructions is intended to guide a young Marie-Antoinette in the ways best to lead a kingdom as Queen. The young queen finds herself thrown from her comfortable court life in Austria to a strange new home in France, where her mother's instructions should guide her every step.Book Talk:
Young Antoinette of Austria has been promised in marriage to Lois since the age of nine. She spends every moment of every day learning how to walk, dance, dress, and speak in the French fashion.
On the appointed day, Antoinette is sent in a carriage to her new husband in her new homeland, France. She finds that, although she is well schooled in the language, the rules of court are stifling. She also finds herself surrounded by people who do not trust her because she is Austrian, and the French and Austrians have been enemies for centuries.
As Antoinette struggles to adapt to French court life, she finds herself struggling to find friends. She begins throwing lavish parties and balls every week. Beautiful new gowns are ordered for every occasion, each more lavish than the last. Hours are spent on memorable hairstyles that become the talk of Europe.
As the talk of Antoinette continues, she is warned continuously by the Treasurer, The Austrian Minister, her Mother, and her brother that she must reign in her spending. Her subjects, the people of France are talking about her expenses and her lavish lifestyle. As Antoinette continues to undertake ever more lavish projects, her subjects are starving.
Across the Ocean, a group of 13 colonies have broken free from England. The people of France have sent troops and support to the new country. Talk begins to swirl in France of a new way of governing the country.
Author's Web Site:Carolyn Meyer
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