I discovered Michelle Moran quite some time ago when reading her book Nefertiti. Her historical fiction novels are so well researched that often when I reach the end of one of her books, I have to remind myself I wasn't actually reading the character's journals, but instead was reading a work of fiction.
The Rebel Queen introduces us to Sita, one of the guards in Queen Lakshmi's all female army. Sita's journey, from growing up in a village where all of the women were in purdah to serving as one of the most trusted members of the Queen's army, is one of immense growth and change. It was so interesting to learn about the differing roles of women at that time, both in India and the United Kingdom. Set in 1850s India, the Rebel Queen explores a time and place that isn't often covered in traditional reading selections. I was left with a completely different understanding of the colonization of India and many of the cultural struggles that were felt both by the British and the residents of Jhansi.
The Rebel Queen is an excellent book club selection, with discussion questions and suggestions for enhancing your book club meeting included. I would also suggest going to Michelle Moran's website, where you can see actual photos of the historical figures in the book. Our book club group chose to bring Indian dishes for our meeting and we had great fun!
Michelle Moran is a wonderful historical fiction writer and I appreciate her attention to unique characters, setting and times.
The Rebel Queen introduces us to Sita, one of the guards in Queen Lakshmi's all female army. Sita's journey, from growing up in a village where all of the women were in purdah to serving as one of the most trusted members of the Queen's army, is one of immense growth and change. It was so interesting to learn about the differing roles of women at that time, both in India and the United Kingdom. Set in 1850s India, the Rebel Queen explores a time and place that isn't often covered in traditional reading selections. I was left with a completely different understanding of the colonization of India and many of the cultural struggles that were felt both by the British and the residents of Jhansi.
The Rebel Queen is an excellent book club selection, with discussion questions and suggestions for enhancing your book club meeting included. I would also suggest going to Michelle Moran's website, where you can see actual photos of the historical figures in the book. Our book club group chose to bring Indian dishes for our meeting and we had great fun!
Michelle Moran is a wonderful historical fiction writer and I appreciate her attention to unique characters, setting and times.
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