A New Take on an Old Love Story

anneandhenry

Ius, Dawn. Anne & Henry. New York: Simon Pulse, 2015. 978-1-4814-3941-1. 289 p. $17.99. Gr. 9 and up.

Inspired by the true story of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, but set in modern times, Henry Tudor is like the “king” of Medina.  He’s the class president, valedictorian, headed to Harvard Law school, and expected to follow in his father’s footsteps with a political career leading to the White House.  Until he meets Anne.  Anne is outspoken and wild, and Henry is extremely attracted to her; maybe because she’s everything he’s not.  They both have their demons; Henry has lost his perfect brother and father, and Anne’s mother seems more interested in using her daughter’s relationship to help herself than actually caring about Anne. This story of love and betrayal will keep you reading!  THOUGHTS:  A fun read for students that like stories written in multiple perspectives.  Each chapter alternates between Henry’s and Anne’s thoughts.  Students who know the story of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn will also enjoy this modern take on the story, but it is not necessary to know any of the history to read this book.  I was more drawn to Anne and found myself feeling more empathy for her but was completely sucked in the whole book.

Romance       Rachel Gutzler, Wilson High School