The book that defines romantic drama

The Scarlet Pimpernel by Barones Emmuska Orczy is her best work, and one of the greatest works of literature I have had the privelege to read.  While incorporating elements of all gneres--action/adventure, poetry, drama, comedy, tragedy, more--it remains a simple story of a girl and her rise above sadness to new hope.

I hope to pass this book along to many children as they grow, providing the same loveliness in their hearts that I felt when I finished reading it for the first time.  As a painter, I interpret the themes, characters and interesting elements that I find in books into paintings.  I've done 29 works based on The Count of Monte Cristo, for example.  On The Scarlet Pmpernel, I've done one.  It was not worthy!  The Scarlet Pimpernel is beyond me.

Well enough overdrama.  This book is excellent and highly recommended for anyone in junior high or older.  I think the themes would go over the heads of younger kids, although the adventurous plotline would certainly still be exciting.

Several elements of the book call for background knowledge, which is a great opportunity for parents and teachers to use this book as a tool.  The story line requires some knowledge of French history during the Revolution and the Reign of Terror.  The fashions of the time require some knowledge of courtesy--cotillion--and it's a great chance to ask young girls to use their imaginations with the clothing and jewelry descriptions.  In addition, the use of French phrases throughout the book is a way to make language lessons slightly more natural.

I recommend reading this book before seeing the movies or play.  It's imperative that the revelation of the pimpernel's identity be a surprise!