FROM THE PUBLISHER

Cleopatra's name still glitters across history, evoking opulence, ambition, and tragedy. Raised in the shadow of the mighty Roman Empire, she dared to dream of a world united under Egyptian rule. She almost succeeded, and if she had, we would live in a far different world today.

Cleopatra was not the renowned beauty of legend—her strength lay in her intelligence, courage, and charm, and she would need all three in her short and perilous reign. She became Queen of Egypt at eighteen and by twenty had been driven from her throne. But she raised an army and won the support of the great Julius Caesar, who helped her return to rule. We will never know what these two brilliant and ambitious people might have accomplished together, for Caesar soon fell to Roman assassins. Instead, it was Mark Antony, another famous Roman, who risked everything with Cleopatra in pursuit Of world power.

In this latest of their "distinguished storybook biographies" (New York Times), the authors' meticulous text and Ms. Stanley's majestic illustrations capture the brilliance of Cleopatra's life. From the enchantments of the royal court at Alexandria to luxurious cruises up the legendary Nile, from the intrigues of the Roman marketplace to a desperate sea battle with a shocking end, these award-winning biographers tell the tragic story of one of the most fascinating women of all time.

FROM THE CRITICS

Publishers Weekly

"This peerless author/artist team makes the captivating... Cleopatra seem astoundingly real," said PW in a starred review. Ages 7-up. (Aug.)

Children's Literature - Gisela Jernigan

Striking paintings in ancient Roman style, combined with an accurate and lively text, make this biography of Cleopatra particularly appealing. Although a picture book format is used, the text is longer than most of this genus and the subject matter more suitable to an older age than the usual picture book audience. The authors have done a wonderful job of dispelling myths about Cleopatra and of making a rather complex historical milieu accessible to both young readers and adults. Mosaic borders on each page add to the beauty of the book's design and have become a Stanley trademark. Includes index, bibliography, preface, introduction, epilogue and maps. Publishers Weekly Best Book.

Children's Literature - Deborah Zink Roffino

This poignant chronicle of the remarkable young Queen of Egypt is another historical thriller from the highly honored husband and wife team of Stanley and Vennema. Dramatic paintings, overflowing with details and contrasts, pull young readers into the kingdoms of Egypt and Rome. The images of Cleopatra, Caesar and Antony were taken from actual coins and statues that remain from that era, one hundred years before the birth of Christ. Maps, bibliography and challenging text blend in this memorable picture book. Readers are held, fascinated, as Cleopatra, more determined than beautiful, rebuilds the Egypt of the Ptolomies one last, glorious time.

Children's Literature - Jan Lieberman

Cleopatra had charm, intelligence, and courage. The impact of these qualities affected both Egyptian and Roman history. This is a picture book biography that deserves special attention. Panoramas of Egyptian and Roman life, vividly depicted, create the atmosphere of the period and give substance to the main characters. Cleopatra hoped to unite the world under Egyptian control but she hadn't counted on falling in love with Caesar and then Mark Antony. Strong-willed and ambitious, she is a tragic figure who teetered on the brink of greatness but is remembered only for her love affairs. How unfortunate that history was written by her enemies.

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6-``It is traditionally believed that Cleopatra dazzled Caesar with her great beauty. Instead, it was the power of her intelligence and personality that drew him to her.'' In this lively, well-crafted biography, Stanley and Vennema brush the cobwebs from the popularly held portrait of Cleopatra to reveal a vital, warm, and politically adroit ruler. Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative. The young queen's marriage to her brother Ptolemy XIII is placed in the context of practices of the rulers of the day. A ``Note on Ancient Sources'' and a map precede the text; an epilogue, pronunciation guide, and a brief bibliography are appended. Stanley's stunning, full-color gouache artwork is arresting in its large, well-composed images executed in flat Greek style. The palette is as rich and sumptuous as the court at Alexandria. Cover art and endpapers simulate period mosaics; the text is set against a faux-tile backdrop that reinforces the book's design and illustration. The figures of Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Mark Antony stride powerfully across scenes of Egypt and the Roman Empire. Finally, Cleopatra emerges as a savvy, astute, and complex leader who followed both her heart and mind.-Carolyn Noah, Central Mass. Regional Library System, Worcester, MA