Queen’s Own Fool

Queen’s Own Fool by Jane Yolen, published by Penguin Young Readers Group on November 12, 2001, is a historical narrative that follows the journey of Nicola, a clever jester known as La Jardinière, who becomes an unlikely confidante to Mary, Queen of Scots. Set against the backdrop of the Renaissance, this 400-page book explores the dynamics of royal life and the challenges faced by the queen as she navigates political intrigue and rebellion.
Readers will find a richly detailed portrayal of Nicola’s role within the queen’s court, where her sharp wit and resourcefulness set her apart from the other nobles. As the story unfolds, Nicola remains steadfastly loyal to Mary, even as tensions rise in Scotland. This edition offers a glimpse into the complexities of royal politics and the personal struggles of those who inhabit the court, making it a compelling read for those interested in juvenile fiction centered on royalty and historical events in Europe.
Official synopsis Publisher
Fans of historical sagas and the CW show Reign will be swept up by this clever tale by Jane Yolen and Robert Harris
Once she was a traveling player . . . Now called La Jardinière, a resourceful and clever jester to the queen’s court, Nicola was a most unlikely person to end up “fool” and friend to Mary, Queen of Scots. But Nicola isn’t an ordinary comedian tumbling and clowning before the court; her quick wit and sharp tongue are rare amongst the fawning nobles. As fate takes Mary from France to Scotland, and into confrontations with rebellious lords and devious advisors, Nicola remains deep in the queen’s inner circle. But when the Scots start to turn on Queen Mary, Nicola struggles to find something—anything—that she, just a fool, can do to save her friend.
“Based deeply in fact and full of detail both luscious and sordid. . . . [Yolen and Harris] spin a historical tale of great immediacy and impact.”—Kirkus Reviews
“This rich and involving novel of Mary Queen of Scots and her court will have readers clamoring to know more about this dramatic period in French and Scottish history. Readers are treated to a fascinating look at royal politics.”—School Library Journal
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