Joan of Arc

by Angela Bull

A biography of the fifteenth-century peasant girl who led a French army to victory against the English, witnessed the crowning of King Charles VII, and was later burned at the stake for witchcraft.

Genres: History

48 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2000

About the author

Angela Bull (Mary, née Leach) was born at Halifax, Yorkshire, England on September 28, 1936.
She was educated at Badminton School and at Edinburgh University where she graduated with honours in English 1959.

Reviews

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. The info was good but the layout was a distraction.

[Madelaine O'Neil]

I was surprised how much information was packed into this book. There were a ton of facts and history included, but there also was a storyline for the children to follow. However, I think most children would find the book a little boring, but every reader has different preferences so it is good to have variety. I think it was a little distracting to have all the images and side notes in the margins because it felt a little interrupted or unorganized. I didn't really find the lay out appealing but children could still learn a lot from this book and also practice reading on their own. I would have this book in my future classroom but I wouldn't pick it to read out loud.

[Kekepania Kakiki · Rating 5 out of 5]

A basic but enjoyable little book.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: Joan of Arc
Author: Angela Bull

Publisher: DK Publishing, Inc.
Year of Publication: 2000

Grade level: 3-5
Genre: Picture Book
Topic: Joan of Arc

Summary: This is the life story of Joan of Arc. When Joan was young, England ruled France. Saints appeared to Joan and told her to save France. As a teen, she led the French army against the English. She was captured by the English and burned to death at age 19. France saw her as a hero. In 1920, she was declared a saint.

Interactions Between Text and Illustrations: Historical pictures support the text.

Curricular Uses: Independent reading
Literary Elements: Non-fiction book with glossary

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm just becoming fascinated with Joan of Arc. Her story really is extraordinary, and I'm looking forward to reading much more about her, this 48 page book was a great place to start. Complicated history simplified for the very young can be a bit confusing, as details and nuance are missing by necessity. Here, the complicated politics of the 100 year war are described. As well as portraying Joan's life, there are lots of fascinating facts. Kings of France were always crowned at Rheim Cathedral for instance. Also a crowd of 10,000 gathered to watch Joan burnt to death.

[Will Thiel]

AR level 3.3