Although Cleopatra's diaries seem too adult in style for one so young, the book combines history and literature to create a fascinating, historically accurate narrative. Her descriptions of Alexandria, the dangerous journey across the sea, the city of Rome, and the beauty of Herculaneum bring alive these ancient civilizations. Forced to grow up too soon because of her father's weaknesses, Cleopatra has to take on more responsibility each day.

Their loyalty to him is no longer guaranteed, so he flees his own country.

King Ptolemy Autletes, Pharaoh of Egypt, is a drunk who has fallen in disfavor with his subjects. Palace intrigue, political alliances, and dangerous ambition threaten the security of the Egyptian throne. Gregory fictionalizes Cleopatra's diaries during the transitional period between her childhood and her becoming Queen of Egypt. Grades 6-9 This title, the first of The Royal Diaries Series, is a spin-off from the Dear America Series. Great historical fiction book for ages 9-12.The Book Report January/February 2000 The Royal Diaries Series Gregory, Kristiana. The author provides resources as an afterword with art and pertinent historical figures that support the details featured in the journals. The journals also communicate themes that are relevant to modern times - navigating through a dysfunctional family, coming of age, and development of a self-identity. The language suggest that although Cleopatra is only an adolescent, she is highly educated and has many resources at her disposal to learn Latin, about other cultures - truly a royal lifestyle. Cleopatra's diaries are rich with detail and the reader can practically feel what it is like to be in the comfort and luxuries of an Egyptian palace, to experience the excesses and slums of Ancient Rome, and to truly relive the culture and lifestyle of the time. The reader can relate to Cleopatra's fears and worries while trying to maintaining an air of confidence at most times. Cleopatra is also gravely concerned about her father's alcoholism and his ability to rule Egypt, and gradually she realizes that she must rise to meet the challenges of ruling an empire and become Queen of the Nile. Ultimately she learns that Trypthaphaena and her supporters are out to kill her and Ptolemy. Show More Trypthphaena has assumed reign of the kingdom.

Cleopatra VII by Kristiana Gregory