1789 – 1799
The French Revolution was a decade of radical social and political upheaval in France. Sparked by Enlightenment ideals, economic hardship, and widespread discontent with the monarchy, the revolution led to the overthrow of King Louis XVI, the rise of the Republic, and profound changes in French society, influencing global movements toward democracy and equality.
Picture books
Moi and Marie Antoinette
Lovely introduction to young Marie Antoinette’s palace life
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Marie Antoinette “Madame Deficit”
Exploration of Marie Antoinette’s complicated legacy
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Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain
Delightful true story of a female mathematician growing up during the French Revolution
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Up and Away!: How Two Brothers Invented the Hot-Air Balloon
Playful true story of two brothers inventing the hot air balloon, with illustrations evoking Revolutionary France
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Chapter books
A Tale of Two Cities
Accessible retelling of Dickens’ classic novel
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Marie Antoinette: Princess of Versailles, Austria-France 1769
Fictional diary from the perspective of a teenage Marie Antoinette
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In the Reign of Terror: A Story of the French Revolution
Classic adventure story set during the French Revolution
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Non-fiction books
La French Revolution
Excellent, concise introduction to the French Revolution, its causes, and its effects
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Paris 1789: A Guide to Paris on the Eve of the Revolution
Compelling introduction to Revolutionary France through a time travel guide
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You Wouldn’t Want to Be an Aristocrat in the French Revolution!: A Horrible Time in Paris You’d Rather Avoid
Irreverent exploration of the fate of aristocrats during the French Revolution
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