I have read a few books on this Queen's early life which detail what forces shaped the woman who became England greatest monarch. From the histories written by Weir and Plowden, you learn why Elizabeth had a negative view of marriage and childbearing, why she vacillated in decision making, why she fought so hard to be loved by her people - the woman Hibbert sketches may be a genius, but he never shows you why he labels her so. He tells you that she was vain, petty, indecisive, vindictive, yet at times courageous, generous, and affectionate; and always a natural scholar. The people in her life come and go, seeking power and wealth by flattery - never does he look past these inducements.

Of interest, though, are little known factoids about that century: I didn't know that Elizabeth's favorite gem was a pearl, why the sieve was a symbol of purity, and that some of the very rich had indoor toilets.

There are very many topics that Hibbert does not give much attention to: He tells you very little about the ordinary man's life, about the sinking of the Spanish Armada, about the Queen's interest in promoting the arts, or the personality of her successor, but he does manage to tell you about Elizabeth's fascination with gifts, especially jewelry; her strident calls for economy; and how her own councilors would use subterfuge to thwart her commands.

This book is a good, but at times confusing overview of Elizabeth's reign. You are introduced to her closest advisers and the events of her time (although not always in order) - but only introduced - you never get to know any of them well.