David Starkey: Elizabeth

Those who watched Starkey's television series, also called Elizabeth, will be familiar with his relaxed yet informative approach to the most famous queen of them all.

"Half in love" with the great 16th-century monarch for her humanity, her scholarliness, her gutsiness, Starkey is particularly interested in Elizabeth's first 25 years, before she ascended the throne.

Thus what he presents is almost a psychological portrait, although so steeped in the politics and customs of the day that it feels richer than you might expect.

In 1567 Elizabeth told parliamentarians: "I thank God that I am indeed endowed with such qualities that if I were turned out of the realm in my petticoat, I were able to live in any place of Christendom."

It is the Elizabeth who spoke these brave and true words that is Starkey's subject.

Vintage

$27.95