Elisabeth of Austria: The Princess Bride (The Royal Diaries)
Grade 4-8-Although not one of the most influential European royals, Elisabeth is still a fascinating character. As she begins her diary, the 15-year-old reveals her true passions-the outdoors, her family's home called Possenhofen, poetry, her pets, her father, and horseback riding. The household is in a fury as Helene, Elisabeth's older sister, prepares to meet their cousin Franz Joseph I, Emperor of Austria and her potential spouse. Then Mama decides that Elisabeth will accompany them in order to meet the emperor's younger brother. When they arrive, Franz Joseph pays little attention to his intended, but rather is smitten with Elisabeth and selects her as his bride. She is fraught with confusion, joy, and sorrow for her sister. Once she accepts his offer, the young Elisabeth has much to prepare. Six months later, she travels to Vienna for her wedding and the most dramatic change to her carefree existence. The diary ends there, but the epilogue explains that the marriage was an unhappy one, due primarily to the confining court rituals and the emperor's imposing mother. Historical notes provide further information about the young princess, her travels, her language skills, and her children. Photos and a family tree are also included. Elisabeth is a charming figure from the past, and this book should prove to be an enjoyable read for historical fiction and diary fans.Alison Grant, West Bloomfield Township Public Library, MICopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.