Daughter of Venice, A Novel by Donna Jo Napoli

2004, Walker Books

264

Teen/YA: historical

I love books based on historical incidents/eras, and not just for the costumes! I find the research which the author puts into the novel creates a rich story, teaching me a little about the life of that time. Daughter of Venice is no exception.

1592, in Venice (obviously...), Donata is born to a wealthy family. However, at this time such families usually only marry off one son, and one daughter. Being a twin, with an elder sister who'll become married, Donata has a rebellious streak. She longs to find out what life is outside the strict social rules that govern her life. So she takes matters into her own hands, dresses up in boys' clothes and ventures outside. There she meets Noe. Not only is he a boy, but he's a Jew. At a time when Christianity is the main religion, it proves a learning curb for her.

This is a tale of discovery. Donata learns more about life in Venice, which leads her to seek knowledge and figure out what her life goals are. Her adventures aren't without danger or edge of the seat moments. Her relationships with the rest of her family definitely shape the woman she'll end up becoming as an adult. There's a lot of love in her family, which makes a change from protagonists who don't get on with their kin. I read this in one sitting, and the time flew past with Donata's exploits.

Paperclips: 0

TGB: 0

Tissues: 2

Daggers: 0

Overall rating: 5. Another book I wish to own.

Donna Jo Napoli can be found here.

Liked this? Try The Lady in the Tower.