Catherine, Dutchess of Cambridge.

Hunter, Nick.  Catherine, Dutchess of Cambridge.  Capstone/Heinemann  2014    48p   $24.00  ISBN 978-1-4109-5942-3  ms/jr  series: Extraordinary Women  Biography VG

When Prince William, the future king of England, proposed to Catherine Middleton, their story became world famous, a modern-day fairytale.  This book’s publication comes approximately a year after the birth of the eponymous subject’s son George, so it is very relevant, though there are many who would argue that England’s royal family is never irrelevant.  This volume in the Extraordinary Women series tells Middleton’s story.  Topics covered include her childhood, education, professional accomplishments, and relationship with Prince William, of course.  What makes Middleton extraordinary is not explicitly stated, but tacitly implied.  With her background and charitable endeavors, she is a bridge between the people of the United Kingdom and their rulers.  The book is very well written and provides just enough information at an appropriate level for the intended readers.  The photographs are the same kind one would find in a biopic for older readers, including old family photos as well as the iconic wedding pictures.  

There is a major problem with this book, however, and that is the “Find Out More” section, which is about Angela Merkel and Germany rather than the Duchess of Cambridge.  

The Extraordinary Women series so far has five titles geared toward advanced middle-school readers.  

Summary: This volume in the Extraordinary Women series tells Middleton’s story, covering topics like her childhood, education, professional accomplishments, and relationship with Prince William, of course.

Catherine Middleton, Prince William       --Bethany Geleskie