Queens

Women in Power through History

by Dr Phyllis G Jestice

#Queens #NetGalley

As I write this post, many are mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth. It seems like a fitting time to recommend a book that highlights many of the strong and capable women who became monarchs, despite the male oriented cultures in which they lived. Within these pages learn about queens and their roles, starting with the Ancient World and ending with Modern Challenges for Monarchies.

The author begins by pointing out that many texts were full of the reasons why women could not/should not rule. Women rulers struggled against this belief for many years. There were few women who ruled on their own although, as the mothers or wives of kings, women maintained some influence. It is because of their scarcity that many know of some of the most important female rulers in their own stead, including Elizabeth II.

This is a work of history, not a series of biographical vignettes. It is well written and researched. Those looking for a relatively academic look at this topic will enjoy this title as may many readers interested in learning about both ideas and people. Note that this book is beautifully produced with many works of art and other illustrations.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Amber Books Ltd for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 08 September 2022

Lunchbox

So Easy, So Delicious, So Much Fun to Eat

by Marnie Hanel; Jen Stevenson

#Lunchbox #NetGalley.

This was the perfect time for me to discover this book and let others know about it. School is just beginning. Are you a person who regularly needs to pack a lunch for a child you know? Would you like to do this with a bit more elan and flair?

Surprise someone by making their lunch tasty and fun. It will feel doable after spending time with this book and its many ideas.

The author begins with a chapter called Lunch Logistics. It provides all the information that is needed for the following chapters.

One of the many things that I enjoyed seeing was all the ways that a mini Babybel cheese could be decorated. This is just one of their whimsys.

The authors seem to like bento box style lunches. Many of these involve assembling not needing to know anything special about cooking or baking. Others do involve some cooking but the recipes feel very doable. For example, one lunch box includes peanut noodles (recipe included) along with apple slices, rice cracker mix, tangerine and raspberries, and edamame. Yes, the noodles are a bit more sophisticated than peanut butter and jelly but that may be just the thing. Others such as a suggested first day of school lunch are simple and creative. For example assemble a pencil whose base is cheddar cheese.

Recommended for those who are creative and view lunch as a fun challenge. Their lucky kids will enjoy opening thier lunch boxes.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Artisan Books for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: July 2022