Gloria Whelan does a superb job of integrating history into an interesting, well-written story.  She paints her characters even-handedly and realistically; they are neither plaster saints nor evil villains. We are led to sympathetically understand the ignorance of the aristocracy leading to actions and decisions that cause harm and pain to others, and we understand equally the troubles of the peasants that drove them to revolution.  We see good intentions and the learning that takes place on both sides. Finally, the author deftly contrasts ignorance and need with deliberate evil, when Lenin comes on the scene.

There are a few readiness issues to consider, ranging from the immorality of Rasputin to the horrors of war. However, if your child(ren) are ready to know about the existence of such things, this should not be a problem. Such topics are dealt with subtly and discretely. 

I recommend Angel on the Square as a first-rate tool for learning some Russian history wrapped in the appealing package of a well-spun tale. 

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