I am not religious at all and know little about biblical history and lore so that is why I picked up this book. It was in the teen section at the local library and I wondered why.
It’s the wholesome historical fiction version of the story of biblical Queen Esther. The story begins by tracing the history of the Agagite’s and their grudge against the Jewish people. Then it seamlessly melds with the traumatic childhood of Hadassah and the death of most of her family. Raised by a cousin, Mordecai and a neighbor Rachel, Hadassah grows up sequestered in their home. As she grows up she yearns to have freedom, and begins to sneak out and explore the city with her childhood friend Jesse. She is spotted and turned into the palace as a potential candidate to be the new queen. Taken with a hundred other virgins to the palace, she spends months in training to have one night to convince King Xerxes to make her queen. Know as Star (Esther is a version of that), she finds the support of friends, Hegai the King’s Chamberlain, and most importantly –God. The political upheaval in the city, against Jews, threatens her life and those she loves. She must find a way to save them all.
I thought this book was really interesting and I learned a lot of historical and religious tidbits. I liked the characters and the intrigue. Of Note:
There is also a children book version for age 9-12
There is also a movie!
Author Interview about Book.
Wiki Site.
For Tweens?
Recommended for older Tweens due to some suggestive talk about sex. Overall though, this is a chaste and extremely non-racy book –despite its implications. For the majority of the book, Esther is ages 6 -20, so Tweens will relate to her need for freedom and rebellion. While there are many interwoven plots and threads (such as a modern day girl reading the story), it flows easily and is extremely understandable. Still worried? Get the children’s edition.
Final Word:
Now I want to know the real history of Esther's story! Hey that means this entertainment book made me want to go find an educational one. I must be getting old!
