drawing challenge / little book

In preparation for a Marie Antoinette themed party a few weeks ago, I created mini books for each of the guests.  Organized with our homeschooled guests in mind, it was a perfect opportunity to learn a little about the late and infamous Dauphine of France.  

(left) Portrait by Greta

Once lived an Austrian girl, Marie Antoinette,

Her life by her royal mother was set.

She was trained to dress and dance in the fashions of France,

for she was soon to be Queen, one they'd never forget.

So off she was sent to the palace of Versailles

where she felt upon her every French eye.

Her King Louis was a bore thus she had parties galore,

but behind silk curtains would cry.

The Queen was looking for happiness,

She craved a different life and a more comfortable dress.

Le Petit Trianon proved a quiet retreat, life more natural, simple, and  sweet,

free from Royal expectations and stress.

Livres were spent to her heart's content on dresses of many hues.

Even more were spent on diamonds, cakes, and shoes.

While common French had no bread - they lived in poverty and dread

and did not take lightly this news.

To four little children a mother Marie became,

A close family life was her greatest aim.

She kept them near and held them dear.

For this greatest love she was never the same.

The poor French people grew ever more poor

with no hope of change in store.

Angrily searching for a solution - they started a revolution,

which brought them to Versailles front door!

They took the King and Queen away,

In a prison they would stay.

Marie was blamed for her spending while ignoring deficit tending,

Then it was off with her head one fall day.

(left) King Louis XVI  (right) Marie was also known to be kind and helpful.

 Notes

Portrait by Poppy.

Fin.

I'll have photos from the party soon.

Norma was the host this week.  I can't wait to see all of the wee books out there!