This novel reads as a diary of the young girl who would become Catherine the Great of Russia. While historical in nature, it is not a biography by any stretch of the imagination. Instead, Ms. Gregory the author has taken biographical information and used it to create a wonderful tale of a young Prussian princess who is destined for a less than noble marriage until she is noticed by the Empress Elizabeth and chosen as the bride for Prince Peter, future Czar of Russia.
For Sophie Augusta Frederika, Princess of Anhalt-Zerbst, life is predictable and somewhat happy. She has a tutor to teach her languages, manners and other important skills for making a good marriage. Unfortunately, she is also painfully aware of the need to make a good marriage to provide for her family and younger siblings. As poor nobles, they do not have the means to make trips to visit other members of royalty often, so each visit must make a positive impression. But no one expects the letter that comes to Sophia's mother when she is just 14.
Rather than lanquishing in obscurity, Sophia learns that the Empress is interested in a marriage between the heir to the throne, Charles-Peter and Sophia. And so begins the whirlwind of portraits, letters and finally a trip to Russia to meet the Empress herself. Throughout the ordeal (for Sophia does believe it is an ordeal) the diary is written in and hidden away to protect it's secrets from her mother.
Truly an inspiring tale of strength, sacrifice and love, this book will hold the attention of all young girls who dream of life as a princess.
Age range: 8 to 12
Gregory, K. (2005). Catherine, the Great Journey Russia 1743. New York: Scholastic, Inc.
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