This isn't my first time reading Deborah Hopkinson and I'm happy I picked this one up! It's a great mix of historical fiction and mystery.

The Plot to Kill a Queen is a fictionalized account of the relationship between Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots. The story also centers main character Emilia who is interested in having her writings performed on stage in the theater. Unfortunately, this dream is pushed to the side when Emilia discovers a plot to kill Queen Elizabeth I. Sent under disguise to figure out the true intentions of Mary Queen of Scots, Emilia quickly learned that things are never what they seem.

What Worked: I LOVED that Hopkinson wrote this as if readers are engaging with an actual play. It brings the character of Emilia to life and it's a fun way to play into her dreams of becoming a playwright. While Hopkinson does take some historical liberties with this text (i.e. Emilia would have never met a young William Shakespeare), it still provides enough historical accuracy to draw in the attention of younger readers. This book is proof that there is a way to draw students into the tidbits of history that are fun, engaging, and high stakes. The relationship between Elizabeth and Mary was truly strained, but adding in a few more high energy elements, Hopkinson is able to provide a history lesson with some added fun. I loved the moments where Emilia would break the fourth wall to give readers an aside about the current environment of play. It made me, as reader, feel more connected to her as a character.

Overall, this was a fast paced and fun read that explored one of my favorite periods of history. This is one that I would recommend to middle grade readers that love both historical fiction and mysteries!