NONFICTION

An Emperor's Guide

by Catherine Chambers
9781512415513. ea vol: illus. by Ryan Pentney. 32p. (How-To Guides for Fiendish Rulers). ebook available. glossary. index. Hungry Tomato. Mar. 2017. lib. ed. $26.65. pap. $7.99.
COPY ISBN
Gr 3–6—The "fiendish" rulers in this set find themselves near death, and instruct their courtiers to record their "rules" for posterity. Their instructions are lengthy paragraphs of standard-content history, with the associated "rule" highlighted in uppercase letters. Topics include directions for acquiring and holding power; carrying out myriad governmental, social, religious, and military responsibilities; and using force or favors to maintain relationships with subjects. However, caricature- and cartoon-style drawings of an unsmiling king and unhappy subjects lack visual appeal, though the humorous and slightly sarcastic dialogue and thought bubbles are entertaining and the set's best feature.
VERDICT Though students may gravitate toward this series, there's just not enough truly fiendish information to keep their attention.
These first-person how-to guides purport to instruct the reader on being a "fiendish" ruler. In a conversational and tongue-in-cheek tone, these books present historical facts about how kings, pharaohs, shoguns, and emperors managed their realms. Illustrations emphasize the comical, using exaggerated facial expressions, postures, and speech balloons to good effect. Humor aside, the books still provide solid information about past royal life. Ind.
Reviewed by Mary Mueller , Apr 01, 2017

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