An African Princess: From African Orphan to Queen Victoria's Favourite

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1848, West Africa: a tribal princess intended for sacrifice is rescued and presented to Queen Victoria. This is her extraordinary story.

Captured, and about to be killed, a young African princess is dramatically rescued by a British naval officer. Taken to England, she is presented at court to Queen Victoria. As an important friendship begins, Sarah embarks on a whole new life... This incredible true story is retold alongside real letters, photographs and historical documents. Recounted with insight and empathy by Walter Dean Myers, the US National Ambassador for Young Peoples Literature 20122013, this is an important reflection on royalty, race, class, belonging and above all identity.

Reviews

The balance of tragedy and privilege is gently pointed out, leaving us to draw our own conclusions. This delicate touch encourages the reader to think about many issues such as race, equality, slavery and empire with empathy as Sarah's incredible story unfolds. The School Librarian

Author Bio

Walter Dean Myers was one of America's most highly respected writers for young readers. He was the two-time recipient of the Newbery Honor, received the Coretta Scott King Award five times and won the inaugural Michael L. Printz Award. He also won the Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement, and the Margaret A. Edwards Award for his contribution to young adult literature. Among his award-winning works of non-fiction, fiction and poetry are Monster, Malcolm X: By Any Means Necessary, Somewhere in the Darkness, The Glory Field, Slam!, Fallen Angels and Harlem. He sadly passed away at home in New Jersey in 2014.