History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

The Musical World of Boublil and Schonberg: The Creators of Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre and The Pirate Queen

Average customer rating:

Very insightful

The Musical World of Boublil and Schonberg: The Creators of Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre and The Pirate Queen
Margaret Vermette
Manufacturer: Applause Theatre and Cinema Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1557837155

Book Description

Two Frenchmen, an idea, and a blank piece of paper. That's how it started. Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg are the creators of the multi-award-winning and much-loved musicals Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre and now an exciting new work The Pirate Queen. Les Miserables alone has been seen by over 53 million people.

The Musical World of Boublil and Schonberg is the first book to offer a comprehensive look behind the closed doors of these intensely private musical theatre giants. Boublil and Schonberg take center stage and talk openly about their methods and the creative processes involved in writing the book, the music, and the lyrics. Additional interviews from collaborators such as their co-writers Herbert Kretzmer, Richard Maltby, Stephen Clark, and John Dempsey; their directors Trevor Nunn, John Caird, Nicholas Hytner, Conall Morrison, and Frank Galati; the choreographer of The Pirate Queen, Mark Dendy; and their long-time producer Cameron Mackintosh gives the reader a full view into their successful process.

Full-color production photographs tell the story of each musical.

Customer Reviews:

Very insightful.......2007-04-11

This book is a wonderfully insightful book to some of my favorite musicals! I really enjoyed the background information as to how some of the musicals came to be, the processes that were followed...everything! I highly recommend this book!

The Pirate Queen: The Story of Grace O'Malley, Irish Pirate

Average customer rating:

Major Disappointment
THE PIRATE QUEEN Rules the High Seas!
UGh
Another "missing" woman of history...
Very Good!

The Pirate Queen: The Story of Grace O'Malley, Irish Pirate
Alan Gold
Manufacturer: NAL Trade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0451217446

Book Description

Grace O'Malley commanded a dozen ships and the obedience of thousands of men. Her empire stretched from Connaught on the Irish coast to the cobalt aters of Africa. Through the daring of her piracy, Grace nearly bankrupted the English treasury-and her outright defiance brought embarrassment to Elizabeth I. Yet the lives of these two amazing women were inextricably intertwined-and their eventual meeting during the most brilliant and romantic era that Europe has ever known would shock the world.

Customer Reviews:

Major Disappointment.......2007-06-25

I struggled to finish this book contrary to my obsession with this time period and love of strong female figures in history. It was poorly written, I thought at first I had maybe strolled into the young adult section in the book store. It was more of a bad romance novel than a historical fiction.

THE PIRATE QUEEN Rules the High Seas!.......2007-03-08

Grace O'Malley led a long and adventurous life. Not always an easy one but one with never a dull moment. From the moment of her first marriage she would not be tamed into a life of a subservient wife. She had a mind of her own and wouldn't let any man, let alone Queen Elizabeth I of England, subdue her.

In Grace's career as a pirate she nearly bankrupted the English treasury, had a few husbands and lovers with very diverse backgrounds and heritages, made herself a fortune and was mother to four children. She also had a unique but amicable relationship with Queen Elizabeth I after much discussion between them concerning their lives and whatever else came to their minds.

This is an exciting, swashbuckling tale about a little known historical Irish persona in the 16th century. Her life is the stuff legends are made of and I only wish there were as many historical fictions novel about Grace O'Malley as there are about Elizabeth I, Queen of England. There are two historical fiction novels by Morgan Llywelyn concerning Grace O'Malley, I've read both and they are very excellent reads as well as this one.

UGh.......2007-02-06

I read this book over the summer in the course of researching Grace O'Malley and was rolling my eyes the whole time. Why take a fascinating historical figure and turn her life story into a boring romance novel? I don't understand.

I was also unable to finish the book despite my usual fascination with anything related to Queen Elizabeth or female pirates. Bleaugh.

Another "missing" woman of history..........2007-01-04

I became a fan after I read 'Warrior Queen' and had to go out and get this one. This book isn't as bloody and brutal as 'Warrior Queen' but it's still good. Having to tell the story of a great woman like this in only 356 pages is tough and there were some areas where I felt the author was jumping around to cover everything.

I wasn't as enthralled with the Queen of England part(s)of this book either, but since her and Grace were friends there probably wasn't anyway around it. This book will make you spend time online finding out more about Grace and her life, I know I will. I do like Mr. Gold's work because he does tell a good story and doesn't hold back on the brutality when the story calls for it. This book is definately worth your time.

Very Good!.......2006-07-09

I thought this book was very worth my money. The story is well written and believeable. Being that this is historical fiction, both characters, in my opinion, were portrayed accuratly, especially Queen Elizabeth I. The book is entertaining and realistic, there was no over-played romance or drama. I've actually read this book twice and loaned it to a friend, and so far she thinks it's great! I'm hoping for more of Alan Gold!

Granuaile: Ireland's Pirate Queen C. 1530-1603

Average customer rating:

Grace's Biography
Inspiring!
Much too dry and fact oriented
Granuaile
Beware of the anti-Christian, radical feminist rants in this book

Granuaile: Ireland's Pirate Queen C. 1530-1603
Anne Chambers
Manufacturer: Wolfhound Press (IE)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Irish | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0863279139

Book Description

Using state papers and manuscripts of the period, Anne Chambers reveals the woman behind the legend and presents one of history's most remarkable women against the turbulent political environment of her time. What emerges is a woman who challenges our predisposed sense of convention, who, over four hundred years ago, was one of the first women to break the mold and make a unique contribution to history.

Customer Reviews:

Grace's Biography.......2007-08-24

Anne Chambers is the authority on Granuaile O'Malley, and she has written the definitive scholarly work in this biography on her.

Inspiring!.......2007-02-18

Anne Chambers' book provides a fascinating and inspiring glimpse into the life of an extraordinary Irish woman. Ms Chambers does an excellent job painting a picture of life in Ireland during the 16th century and the role of women in Ireland through the ages. Anyone traveling to Ireland or interesting in Irish history and the role of women in Irish society will benefit from reading this biography.

Much too dry and fact oriented.......2007-01-04

It's my fault really but this book is just not what I was looking for and I could not get through it.

Granuaile.......2006-07-01

This book was excellently written. To the person who said the anti-christian statements were not true- Let me guess? Your a christian right. Thats the problem with christians, they still deny the truth no matter what. Christianity has always been a man's religion and its the most degrading religion to women and womens rights that has ever existed. I'm glad this author had the guts to be more unique and unconventional to tell the TRUTH. Sorry Christians. I know you never appreciate that.

Beware of the anti-Christian, radical feminist rants in this book.......2006-03-27

I'm an O'Malley, so you can bet I was looking forward to this book. However, with all due respect to the author, at least in the early going, this book contains some anti-Christian, radical feminist claims that put into question the integrity of the rest of it. For instance, on page 17-18 (paperback edition) the author states: "The writings of the early Christian saints, such as Paul, John, Ambrose, Jerome and Augustine, reflected the degraded position of women in Roman society. Augustine wrote of the 'horrible beastliness of women'..."

Not surprisingly, the author can not substantiate this claim and therefore does not give reference to the original source documents in her endnotes as she does with other claims. Don't get me wrong, there is no doubt that the period in which Granuaile lived was male dominated, and at times, shamefully so. However, that doesn't give an author a license to try to right any injustices by yet another injustice.

It's a shame that the apparent good intentions of this author were laid waste by her seeming desire to bash males and Christianity. A biographer should, at the very least, seek, know and uphold the truth, and then tell the good, the bad and the ugly in an even handed way. This isn't too much to ask.

SPQR IX: The Princess and the Pirates (The SPQR Roman Mysteries)

Average customer rating:

Another enjoyable SPQR episode
Ninth in the SPQR Series
Another gem from JMR
The series just gets better
excellent read

SPQR IX: The Princess and the Pirates (The SPQR Roman Mysteries)
John Maddox Roberts
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Minotaur
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 031233723X
Release Date: 2005-05-12

Book Description

As I walked back through the City, my mood was moderately elevated. This appointment did not displease me nearly as much as I pretended. Like most Romans I abhorred the very thought of sea duty, but this was one of the rare occasions when I was looking forward to getting away from Rome....... For years I had complained of the disorder of the City, and now that it was gone, I found that I missed it. All the peace and quiet seemed unnatural. I did not expect it to last. Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger in SPQR IX: The Princess and the PiratesHis two years of aedileship over, Decius is ready for his next adventure. He would rather do anything than join the war with Caesar in the dismal forests of Gaul, so he and his slave/proteacute;geacute; Hermes find themselves on a mission to rid the Mediterranean of pirates. They set off with shoddy ships and sailors to the island of Cyprus, where a young Cleopatra is staying. Between her impressive crew and the ex-pirate Ariston providing insider knowledge of that cutthroat occupation, Decius thinks he stands a good chance of bringing himself some glory. That would be too simple, though. The ruler of the island, Silvanus, is murdered in a most peculiar fashion and Decius, as a guest in his home, has a sacred duty to find and punish the guilty party. Because world relations are already strained, he would rather not suspect Cleopatra, heir to the Egyptian throne. But she has plenty of reasons to hate Rome and murder runs in her family. Another guest and suspect is Gabinius, who is in exile and could have easily given up loyalty toward his friend if it meant a quicker return to Rome. In the meantime, Decius is being humiliated in his pirate hunt, and as if this weren't enough, Aphrodite herself seeks Decius's help by appearing to him in a dream vision. As Decius investigates world trade, the island history, and the new kind of piracy plaguing the waters, he is finding connections more menacing than he had ever imagined possible. In this ninth book in the series, Roberts crafts another skillful mystery, this time fervently pulsing with the collision of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian interests.

Customer Reviews:

Another enjoyable SPQR episode.......2007-08-09

Overall: This is another highly enjoyable, quick read in the SPQR series by John Maddox Roberts.

Detailed: The title is a bit misleading which actually helps sets up the rest of the story. The pirate part of the book is more part of the historical back drop for the murder than a key plot element. As per the other SPQR books, this is a murder mystery using famous historic personages and repeeating characters from the other books.

The main character development is of Cleopatra instead of the major characters. There is clear foreshadowed of Cleopatra's role in upcoming books / future events which is done very well. Hermes is freed in act of kindness caused by the realization of how short life is by Decius. It is nicely done.

The religous elements of the story are interesting especially regarding the cult of Aphrodite. There is a clear implication that Decius and Julia will be parents in the next novel. It should be a very interesting twist to see Decius as a father.

Summary:
--------
Plot: 4 of 5 stars
Characters: 3 of 5 stars
Action: 3 of 5 stars

Ninth in the SPQR Series.......2007-03-01

John Maddox Roberts is the pseudonym of Mark Ramsay, author of numerous works of science fiction and fantasy, in addition to his successful historical SPQR mystery series. He lives in New Mexico with his wife.

Anyone who is a fan of Lindsey Davis, Steven Saylor or David Wishart will love the SPQR series of books by the author. Once again we have an addition to the ever growing number of amateur detectives patrolling the streets of ancient Rome, solving mysteries and crimes. Not all at the same time, I may add, in fact not even in the same centuries. Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger, a high-born bad boy, is the offering of the author and he is just as interesting, likeable and believable as the leading characters from the author's contemporaries.

Decius has managed to travel the length and breadth of the empire, mostly trying to escape from people who would like to beat his brains out or worse. Along the way he has had several adventures and been involved in solving more than one mystery.

Now he is newly elected to the prestigious, but lowly office of aedile, probably the lowest rung on the ladder of political ambition and what does he have to do? Seek out the corruption that is threatening to strangle Rome. Decius must put his fertile brain to work to clean up the streets of his beloved Rome before hidden powers destroy everything within the gates of is beautiful city.

Another gem from JMR.......2006-11-10

John Maddox Roberts is the underrated, best writer of the Roman detective mystery genre. Flawless historicity is combined with excellent writing, humor, and interesting characters, who actually develop and mature as the series progresses. The Princess and the Pirates is one of his best, as our Decius finds himself in a perilous situation on Cyprus, and surprised to be helped by young Cleopatra. As Rome had just taken Cyprus from Egypt, her presence is not as surprising as it might seem. She is but one character to show maturation through this series, including Decius himself, his assistant/bodyguard Hermes, the former street gang leader Milo and his enemy Clodius's sister Clodia.

One nice thing about the SPQR series: despite taking place in the heavily left-right politicized times of Cicero and Julius Caesar, these books adhere to a mildly cynical view of both the aristocratic party and the so-called democratic(demogogic?) one. Decius has ties to leaders of both. Stephen Saylor and a few others imbue their books with first century B.C. leftist manifestos. I can't vote for consul, so leave the heavy-handed good side, bad side politics out. Just give me fun ancient Roman mysteries like the SPQR series.

The series just gets better.......2005-12-30

SPQR IX commences just after Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger's aedile adventures with dodgy tradesmen with our senatorial sleuth setting off for Cyprus under a commission from the Senate to mop up an irritating case of piracy with minimal resources. With a growing air of authority our purple striper boards ship for the Mediterranean island with the grown up and ever faithful Hermes at his side and wife, Julia, making a more sedate journey with Titus Annius Milo a few weeks behind.
Freed from marital constraints, Decius makes the most of this change of scenery by arriving and, in true Julian style, swiftly commandeers three water laden hulks and a motley crew of ex-pirates and legionaries to sail his flotilla. After recruiting the fearsome Ariston to aid him in his chase he also deals with the governor, Silvanus, who eventually ends up murdered by being forced to choke to death on incense. There is also the exiled Gabinius whose imperium is non-existent but personal authority is immense. In addition to these two senior Roman officials, we are introduced to a supporting list of suspects with the poet Alpheus and the four representatives of the powerful equites factions, Marcus Junius Brutus of the Wine Merchants, Mamercus Sulpicius Naso of the Grain Exporters, Decimus Antonius of the Metal Brokers, and Malachi Josepides of the Textile Importers. Prominently in the cast is Sergilius Nobilior, chief of the Banker's Association and his voluptuous and somewhat promiscuous wife, Flavia.
However, the real task for Decius is to hunt down the pirate Spurius and he is given some unwanted assistance by the teenage Cleopatra who happens to be visiting Cyprus. Her political astuteness and immense resources coupled with girlish enthusiasm prove boon and bane to our hero as he finds himself on the receiving end of caulking sabotage, night espionage trips, attempted assassinations and insistent women before Julia and Milo turn up in good time to lend a much needed hand as he finally discovers who is behind the piracy, Silvanus' murder and a vast trading conspiracy.
Decius steps out of his trip to Cyprus with his auctoritas improved. He is no Julius Caesar (in fact he's delighted to make the acquaintance of an Ethiopian prince who's never heard of the great man) but his cogitative sleuthing makes him stand out amongst the senatorial crowd. Geniunely likable, always affable, hard but fair his results speak for themselves.
JMR's creation continues to improve and the SPQR series is vastly superior to the somewhat pulpy Children of Rome novels. Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger ranks right up there with Gordianus the Finder, Marcus Didius Falco and Marcus Valerius Corvinus and JMR should continue to write about him for as long as he can.
Buy it.

excellent read.......2005-09-06

The author is excellent, the book is very easy to read and flows from the first to the last page. I couldn't put it down.

Average customer rating:

Pirate Queen
Morgan Llywelyn
Manufacturer: O'Brien
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0862789745

Product Description

For young readers, a story of immense bravery and daring, as Granuaile, the Pirate Queen, takes on the great Norman lords, smuggles weapons and mercenaries for the Ulster Gaelic ODonnell and ONeill clans and finally confronts Queen Elizabeth herself. In the 16th century, Granuaile was the most feared woman in Ireland, heading a large army and a fleet of ships, trading and raiding and demanding tribute from all who sailed through her territory. It was a time of decline of the Gaelic chieftains and traditions of Ireland as Elizabeth Tudor, the Virgin Queen of England, extended her power throughout Ireland by bribery and slaughter.

The Pirate Queen: In Search of Grace O'Malley and Other Legendary Women of the Sea

Average customer rating:

Remembering the forgotten
Inspiring Book
Totally Misleading
Where's the story?
How I Spent My Summer Vacation, Looking for Pirate Women...

The Pirate Queen: In Search of Grace O'Malley and Other Legendary Women of the Sea
Barbara Sjoholm
Manufacturer: Seal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 158005109X

Book Description

The Pirate Queen begins in Ireland with the notorious Grace O’Malley, a scourge to the most powerful fleets of sixteenth-century Europe. This Irish clan chieftain and pirate queen was a contemporary of Elizabeth I, and a figure whose life is the stuff of myth. Regularly raiding English ships caught off Ireland’s west coast, O’Malley purportedly fought off fierce Algerian pirates just hours after giving birth to her son. She commanded two hundred men (and a couple of husbands), and acquired lands and castles that still dot the Irish coastline today. But O’Malley was not alone, especially in the waters of the North Atlantic where author Barbara Sjoholm traveled through coastal communities and seafaring ports to collect these little-known stories. Since ancient times, women have rowed and sailed, commanded and fished, built boats and owned fleets. Yet their incredible contributions have been nearly erased from the history books, as have the myths of seal women, Finn wives, and storm witches. In The Pirate Queen, Sjoholm brings some of these extraordinary stories back to life, taking the reader on an unforgettable journey in this meticulously researched, colorfully written, and truly original work. Illustrations and maps add to these intriguing swashbuckling tales

Customer Reviews:

Remembering the forgotten.......2006-08-08

The Pirate Queen contains numerous well-researched stories of the many historical and present-day women whose home is the sea. This is not just a book about Grace O'Malley, though she is amply covered in four chapters, but rather it brings to life the many well and lesser known women whose voices and stories have long been forgotten. Sjoholm obviously took great care to convey the histories in an accurate and interesting way and the depth of her research is admirable. But she wasn't simply writing a history book; this is about her journey too and that's what gives The Pirate Queen its accessibility and warmth. As I read Sjoholm's book, I felt like I traveled and went to many places that I will never see, and also learned about women I never knew existed. The repeated theme of women being forgotten, or their roles diminished, by history books and even contemporary scholars, is a tragedy too often seen in so many professions. I, for one, am glad that Barbara Sjoholm took the time to get these stories on the page.

Inspiring Book.......2006-08-07

I think this is a wonderful book. It is beautifully written, thoroughly researched, well-organized, and very inspiring. I found it to be extraordinary on many levels. Ms. Sjoholm honored her interest in seafaring women by conducting the research, planning her trip, taking her trip, and, in essence, following her dream. To me, her journey itself was as inspiring as the wonderful and courageous women about whom she wrote. This book, in addition to educating me about historical women in the North Atlantic, also showed me what it looks like when a woman--in this case the author herself--pursues a dream.

Totally Misleading.......2006-06-14

I am more than a little interested in historical accounts of piracy, especially those dealing Grace O'Malley, and other female mariners. I selected this book hoping for more stories of the same, and was instead bored to tears by the author's accounts of her trip, the countryside, the places she stayed.. On and On. I got no new information about Grace or anyone else. It seemed like the author did not find enough information about these "legendary women" and needed to pad the book with her adventures. I personally would reccomend "She Captians" or Anne Chambers biography of Grace O'Malley over this book.

Where's the story?.......2006-05-27

This book was very disappointing. I read five pages and returned it to the store. The title was very misleading.

I sat down to read about Grainne and her female contemporaries and ended up reading about how the author had dinner and tea with some Americans... so something or other. After I read that far, I put it down and took a nap.

How I Spent My Summer Vacation, Looking for Pirate Women..........2006-04-05

That should have been the title of the book. I was really disappointed. There was very little about Grace O'Mally, and more about what she did on her vacation.
I really didn't care why she changed her name or where she stayed or that she got sick and couldn't go row-boating. I just wanted to know about women's roles at sea, which she did cover a bit, but she could have done in a 100 page paperback instead.

Pirate Queen: The Life of Grace O'Malley, 1530-1603

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Pirates in history

Pirate Queen: The Life of Grace O'Malley, 1530-1603
Judith Cook
Manufacturer: Mercier Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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Granuaile: Ireland's Pirate Queen C. 1530-1603

ASIN: 1856354431

Book Description

This biography of Grace O'Malley, the unofficial pirate queen of Ireland in the 16th century, will delight readers with its spine-tingling accounts of plunder, piracy, kidnapping, and royal acquaintances. From her early marriage to her near hanging, O'Malley's life is extraordinary and provides for a captivating read.

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Pirates in history.......2005-04-14

This book on Grace O'Malley is a very well written book. If you're into adventure read this story Grace O'Malley. I traced back my family history and I'm actually related to her. I'm an O'Malley too.

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The Pirate Queen
Emily Arnold McCully
Manufacturer: Putnam Juvenile
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Irish | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Action & Adventure | People & Places | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Pirates | Obsessions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0698116291

Book Description

Grania O'Malley was born with the mark of a sailor and the light of the sea in her eye. As she grew, tales of her courage and heroic deeds traveled across Ireland. But when she came up against a ruthless governor, even fearless Grania was stymied. So she turns to a woman more powerful than she in this heart-stopping tale that's as big as the Irish Sea. "McCully writes with great flair and her sweeping watercolors capitalize on the historical drama....What a woman, what a tale." - Publishers Weekly, starred review "McCully introduces a 16th-century heroine who will offer educators an alternative to what is traditionally presented as a male 'occupation.'" - School Library Journal, starred review "Children intrigued by pirates will enjoy McCully's unusual picture book, which offers some insight into the history behind the legend and illuminates more than the life of Grania O'Malley." - Booklist Emily Arnold McCully lives in New York City and Chatham, New York.

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How Cute
Not Good!
The Ballad of the Pirate Queens

The Ballad of the Pirate Queens
Jane Yolen
Manufacturer: Harcourt
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: School & Library Binding

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0152007105

Book Description

Two sailors were keeping watch alone when the governor's men stormed aboard the Vanity. Those two--the legend-inspiring pirate queens Anne Bonney and Mary Reade--fought bravely but called in vain for their shipmates, who sported and drank below deck. Jane Yolen's stirring ballad immortalizes these two daring women and offers readers an intriguing look at life on the high seas.

Customer Reviews:

How Cute.......2005-10-12

I love this book. It's so cute. The poems are adorable, and the illustrations are fantastic. Love it.

Not Good!.......2003-08-10

For at least 20 years I have been studying about pirates. And for at least 20 years I have been reading about the two lady pirates. Anne Bonny and Mary Read. The farther back in history you go, the less documentation you will find. Well, in the Institute of Jamaica, Kingston I copied the trial transcripts of Jack Rackham, those two young ladies, Captain Vane, etc., as well as other documentation that may or may not be entirely factual. But the Ballad of the Pirate Queens states that the book is factual. Yes, Anne and Mary were captured on Calico Jack Rackham's ship (name unknown, but it is named "Vanity" in this book!) in Negril Bay, Jamaica. But in the book it states Anne was Jack's wife. Wrong, she was James Bonny's wife. The book also states the pirates had captured twelve turtle fisherman that day. Wrong. They captured no one that day, much less twelve turtle fishermen. (Remember I have copies of the trial transcripts!!!) No one knew two of the crew were woman until they were taken to St. Jago de la Vega, Jamaica (now called Spanish Town, where I visited 18 years ago). Only one pleaded her belly (Anne's pregnancy), and Mary died of an illness in her jail cell. I never read a single speculation that Mary was taken out of the cell in a shroud, and Anne and Mary moved to Louisiana to live happily ever after raising their children. (Just think--Louisiana in the early 1700's was sparcely populated with anything but gators and skeeters!!! Do you remotely believe that two single mothers would move there to raise their children?) I am thinking, however, of framing those beautiful illustrations in BALLAD! Please don't take Ballad of the Pirate Queens seriously. Instead, read other pirate books where it is obvious the author did her research or at least explained that the book was her own fictionalized account. Anne Bonny plays a secondary, and much more realistic, character in The Diary of a Slave Girl, Ruby Jo, a novel for older children. The author also talks about myths and facts about pirates of The Golden Age of Piracy. The photos of pirates and slaves of that era teach more history than Ballad even begins to. Did you know fugitive slaves often signed aboard pirate ships?

The Ballad of the Pirate Queens.......2000-04-21

The book that I chose to read for my third critical reflection was called The Pirate Queens. The book was based on the true story of the final voyage of female pirates Anne Bonney and Mary Reade. It portrays the scenario of how Bonney and Reade's ship The Vanity was overtaken by a government sent ship headed by Captain Albion. The story was one of war, pride, and deceit. The crew of The Vanity, consisting of all men, turne their back on the female pirates and chose not to assist in defending the ship. As a result, the ship is seized and burned and the entire crew was put to death. Bonney and Reade, however, were spared due to the fact that they were expecting children. At this particular time in history it was unthinkable to murder an unborn child regardless of the crimes of the mother. This book is a good read for young children for many reasons. For one, it is easy to read and understand. The author, Jane Yolen, does a great job of describing the scene in an easy to understand, entertaining way. There were several parts of the book that are written in rhyme which is something that I always enjoyed as a child because it made the text easier to follow. Also, ever couple of pages the book returns to a recurring phrase which emphasizes The Vanity's beauty, power, and presence as one of the great ships of the time. The literature is presented in a scroll fashion on the left page. This gives the book a feeling of the time it is describing. The background in which the words are written are a dull yellow which is consistent with how an old manuscript would look presently. Another fabulous aspect of the book is the illustrations. I am not in any way exaggerating when I say that the illustrations within this book are among the best I have ever seen. Each picture takes up the entire left side of the page. These pictures are extremely detailed in every aspect. David Shannon, who illustrated the book, did so with an acrylic paint on an illustration board. As a result is has a very rustic and real look to it which adds greatly to the overall appeal of the book. Each picture is very dark. This also gives the reader a feel for the time since lighting was at a minimal almost anywhere in the world, especially on sea. All of the pictures also have a phrase which describes who or what the picture is illustrating. For example there is a picture in the middle of the book which shows an enemy ship, called The Albion, approaching The Vanity. The caption reads, "The Albion engages the Vanity in battle." The idea that this book is good based solely on the fact that children would like it cut the potential of this book short. Often the idea of whether or not the book will appeal to children is what I focus on. Here, I think it is important to point out that this book is interesting enough to stand alone regardless of its intended audience. Overall, based on the illustrations alone, I think that this book is the best I have reflected upon to this point. Their is a lot of aesthetic appeal that really catches the eye and allows for a great deal of fantasy. This along with the interesting story that accompanies it are both reasons to share this adventure young children of both genders. The idea of pirate life will fascinate young boys while the fact that the two main characters were women will keep young girls interested.

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