What is Cleopatra: The Girl Who Would Be King about?
Cleopatra and her father (the rightful Pharoah of Egypt), have fled their palace and home as Cleopatra’s sister has taken control of the throne by force. Cleopatra knows her father is unable to get it back himself, so she is determined to do it for him.
Plot summary of Cleopatra: The Girl Who Would Be King (No Spoilers)
Cleopatra hates being looked at as a pauper. But that is what she is now that her sister has taken her father’s throne. Cleopatra and her father had to flee for their lives, and have been offered a place to stay in a famous general’s home. This suits her father, who is happiest playing his flute, and not worrying about his country’s future.
But for Cleopatra, the new life offered to her is anything but suitable. Being taught weaving, sewing and cooking, and then married off to a wealthy Roman is far from her plans to regain the throne. First she must convince the general to pay for an army to fight her sister.
This isn’t as straight forward as first thought, so with a slave from the general’s home, she sets off for Rome. Again her plans are scuppered, and she must flee once more – not realising she has run straight into danger.
Cleopatra is incredibly clever however, and at only 12 years of age is speaking several languages and is self taught much about the world, running a country, diplomacy and deals. The danger becomes her destiny as she is marooned among pirates, starving and thirsty. Again, time at her exceptional Alexandria library in her past saves her life once again.
Cleopatra will never give up being the ruler of her beloved Egypt.
Review
Although mostly fictional, this story of the most famous ruler of Egypt, let alone being a woman ruler at that, is a compelling and exciting tale. This is the first book in a new series by multi award winning Jackie French who is a seasoned writer of middle grade historical novels.
The series named Heroes in an Ancient World will show tween readers famous heroes in their youth, and if they are as fascinating as Cleopatra: The Girl Who Would Be King, it’s going to be a gripping series indeed.
The end of the novel has a glossary explaining many terms and words used in the novel and also a historical note which is written on what is actually known about Cleopatra as an adult ruler. What is also made clear is the fact that what has been discovered by archaeologists and scholars is written by her enemies – all men.
Who was Cleopatra really? This novel gives us a captivating snapshot of this ancient time in history and the lives lived.
Book Style
288 Pages / Glossary & Historical Note
FAQ’s
What age is it for?
9+
Where & When is it set?
Egypt / Rome 59 BCE (Before Common Era)
What is the Point of View / Tense of the novel?
1st Person / Past Tense
Is there Violence?
Lots of talk of poisonings, being thrown to crocodiles, or even crucifixion for crimes committed
What genre is ?
Historical Middle Grade Fiction
Themes
Historical / Action / Courage / Ancient Heroes
Is it part of a series?
Yes – It is part of the Heroes in an Ancient World series
- Cleopatra: The Girl Who Would Be King
Author
Jackie French
Publisher
Harper Collins Australia
Find more Historical Reads here
(2026, Harper Collins Australia, Cleopatra, Egyptian Pharoahs, Ancient Rulers, Kings, Queens, Stolen Thrones, Betrayals, Princess, Slaves, Plans, Pirates, Shipwrecks, Riches, Historical, Series, Action, Adventure, Courage, Betrayal)