The Redheaded Princess by Ann Rinaldi

As a child, Elizabeth was all too aware that her life hinged on the mood of her father, and following his death, the mood of those in power. The daughter of King Henry VIII and Anne Boylen grew up believing that one day she would be Queen, despite the fact that she was third in her father's line of succession. Rinaldi examines young Elizabeth's life from the age of nine through her coronation as Queen. Elizabeth is an astute and intelligent young woman, wise beyond her years. Even as a young girl, she surrounds herself with valuable tutors, advisors, and friends who are extremely loyal to her. She keeps her wits about her as she is arrested as a traitor, which literally keeps her head attached to her neck. As always, Rinaldi has created a beautifully crafted historical fiction tale that really puts readers into the sixteenth century. She clearly portrays the power struggles, religious conflicts, and emotional turmoil that Elizabeth faced. Rinaldi includes a short bibliography and an author's note that explains her interest in Elizabeth's life. The author's note, however, does not explain how much of Rinaldi's story is taken from historical record and how much is simply story.