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A column of fire parent’s guide: what’s inside
What it offers
A note for parents
A Column of Fire is a lengthy historical epic set during the Protestant-Catholic religious conflicts of 16th-century England, featuring themes of political intrigue, espionage, and religious extremism. While the novel emphasizes tolerance and compromise over violence, it contains scattered depictions of conflict, murder, and religious persecution typical of the era. The book rewards integrity, loyalty, and principled leadership, making it suitable for mature teen readers with interest in history, though its 900+ pages and complex political landscape suit older rather than younger teens.
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From the publisher
As Europe erupts, can one young spy protect his queen? International bestselling author Ken Follett takes us deep into the treacherous world of powerful monarchs, intrigue, murder, and treason with his magnificent new epic, A Column of Fire. In 1558, the ancient stones of Kingsbridge Cathedral look down on a city t... As Europe erupts, can one young spy protect his queen? International bestselling author Ken Follett takes us deep into the treacherous world of powerful monarchs, intrigue, murder, and treason with his magnificent new epic, A Column of Fire. In 1558, the ancient stones of Kingsbridge Cathedral look down on a city torn apart by religious conflict. As power in England shifts precariously between Catholics and Protestants, royalty and commoners clash, testing friendship, loyalty, and love. Ned Willard wants nothing more than to marry Margery Fitzgerald. But when the lovers find themselves on opposing sides of the religious conflict dividing the country, Ned goes to work for Princess Elizabeth. When she becomes queen, all Europe turns against England. The shrewd, determined young monarch sets up the country’s first secret service to give her early warning of assassination plots, rebellions, and invasion plans. Over a turbulent half century, the love between Ned and Margery seems doomed as extremism sparks violence from Edinburgh to Geneva. Elizabeth clings to her throne and her principles, protected by a small, dedicated group of resourceful spies and courageous secret agents. The real enemies, then as now, are not the rival religions. The true battle pitches those who believe in tolerance and compromise against the tyrants who would impose their ideas on everyone else—no matter what the cost. Set during one of the most turbulent and revolutionary times in history, A Column of Fire is one of Follett’s most exciting and ambitious works yet. It will delight longtime fans of the Kingsbridge series and is the perfect introduction for readers new to Ken Follett. (copied from Amazon.com)
Shelved under
- Historical fiction
- medieval fiction
- Kingsbridge Series
- Reinas
- Catedrales
- Cathedrals
- Ficcion
- Fiction
- Historia
- Queens
- History
- Middle Ages
Books in the Kingsbridge series
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ISBN 9780525954972 · Viking