Book details
Daughter of Venice
Description
In 1592, Donata is a noble girl living in a palazzo on the Grand Canal. Girls of her class receive no education and rarely leave the palazzo. In a noble family, only one daughter and one son will be allowed to marry; Donata, like all younger daughters, will be sent to a convent. Donata longs to be tutored like her brothers and to see the Venice she has glimpsed only on the map. What is the world beyond her balcony, beyond what she sees when she glides, veiled, in a gondola down the canal? She dresses as a boy and escapes the palazzo on the Grand Canal to see the world before she is shut away, and to try to find a way to escape her fate. Donata risks everything; she changes her life, and her familys life, forever when she walks through the door and encounters a Venice she never knew existed.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
12-13
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
288 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Enrichment: 'Daughter of Venice' offers readers a rich portrayal of 16th-century Venice, providing a vivid sense of place and time that can deepen one's understanding of European history and the social dynamics of the Renaissance period.
- Strong Female Protagonist: The novel features a courageous and intelligent young woman, Donata, who challenges the gender norms of her time. Her journey can inspire readers, particularly young women, to assert their independence and pursue their passions.
- Themes of Identity and Choice: Donna Jo Napoli explores universal themes such as self-discovery, personal freedom, and the consequences of choices. These themes resonate with readers of all ages, encouraging introspection and discussion about one's path in life.
- Engaging Storytelling: Napoli is known for her compelling narrative style that weaves historical details with fiction. 'Daughter of Venice' is no exception, offering an engaging plot with twists and turns that keep readers invested in the characters' fates.