I much prefer the newer graphic novel about Joan of Arc.
This is just too much information. ( )

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This is a good biography for younger students although the reading level is above young students capabilities. However it is worth reading it aloud to those children. The illustrations really help the reader understand the both the times and the situations. I am very grateful for the way Joan’s execution was portrayed. The distance was great enough that only a faint view of her could be seen but you can see the large crowd indicating the significance of her death. ( )

Joan of Arc is one of the many famous women in history. Stanley gives the reader a good background summary of the Hundred Years War. Joan gets visions as a child of angels and saints. She was given the quest to take the true king to be crowned and began her journeys and adventures. Throughout every battle, Joan fought for her country. Eventually, she was captured by the British and accused of lying about God guiding her and using her to spread his word. She was burned at the stake, a martyr to her cause. After her death, the French won the war and the new French king successfully cleared Joan of her charges.

The text is meant for intermediate readers, as the print is tiny. The author helpfully supplies a glossary for French terms. She also supplies different customs and beliefs for the time period. It covers the key points of her life and is a good way to pass on the motivation to never give up. ( )

Diane Stanley's biographies ought to be made accessible to older readers. They provide such a readable hook. Often these gems sit untouched in my elementary school library, because they are densely written and they are long. And yet, her narrative arc is enjoyable and entertaining. The trademark illustrations are vibrant and colorful, adding detail to the time and place of her subjects. In this one, Joan of Arc is an entirely sympathetic character, and a hero to boot. Told in the context of THe Hundred Years War, it provides a rich summation of the life of Joan of Arc and her impact on the history of France . ( )