Week 12 Prompt - Nonfiction

This week, our class explored using readers' advisory skills and techniques for our readers who prefer to read non-fiction. For this example, I chose the book Murder of a Medici Princess by Caroline P. Murphy. The following questions help flush out the aspects of RA that a librarian should be able to identify in order to suggestion non-fiction books. 

Where is the book on the narrative continuum?
This book is a mix on the narrative continuum. There are some moments in the book that are very lyrical and prose-like, while there are other times when Murphy focuses on fact-based prose.

What is the subject of the book? 

The title of this book, Murder of a Medici Princess would imply that this is a story surrounding Isabella d’Medici’s murder. While the murder is a component of the story, the book provides rich details and information about her life as a member of the political, savvy, and ruthless Medici family.

What type of book is it? 

This book is a historical retrospective of a family that is the subject of a number of historical fiction novels and lore.

What is the pacing of the book? 

The pacing of this book is moderate, which seems appropriate. The parts that are slower engage the reader with a lot of detailed, factual information; the faster moving parts tell stories of the Medici family and read similar  to fiction.

  

Describe the characters of the book.

The characters in this book are described with historical accuracy. Their personalities unfold quickly and it is evident the type of characteristics each holds – cunning/sly, outgoing, lively, withdrawn, good, evil. This is a book with a large cast of characters – some who are only briefly mentioned; however, though there are a number of secondary characters, they are important to the politics and family dynamics of this group.

While readers can recognize elements of the characters, they are not as relatable as characters in other books may be. Part of this may be because of the setting of this story, which is unique to the time period.

           

How does the story feel?

The story is both an illumination of a woman who was ahead of her time (educated, philanthropic) and also perceived to be/portrayed as a “spoiled party girl.” The reader learns more about Isabella and her family than her murder. The story is informative and engaging as well as dark and unsettling.

What is the intent of the author? 

In this book, the intent of the author is to educate the reader not only about the murder of Isabella d’Medici (which, from all intents and purposes and popular belief should be pinned on her husband), but also to share information about the relationship between Isabella and her father and brothers, and the general prestige and power of the Medici family.

           

What is the focus of the story? 

The focus of the story is on Isabella d’Medici, her life as an atypical woman during the Renaissance, her family relationships, and the power and rule of the Medici family as a whole.

Does the language matter? 

Yes! The language is straightforward and bold, and also incorporates terminology from the time.

Is setting important and well-described? 

In most cases, yes. There is detail about setting and it is important to understand the community in which the family lived. In some parts, when the author is describing more about the economic or political landscape, setting isn't emphasized as much.

Are there details and if so, what? 

Yes, the details are fairly strong and consistent throughout the whole story. It seems as if many more details about male characters are shared – that may be because more details of men’s lives were preserved – but we still get a great picture of Isabella and her life.

           

Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear? 

The book includes a very helpful family chart at the beginning, which is critical to understanding the family’s heritage and relationships. There are additional maps, drawings, and charts, some which were produced during that time, as well.

Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding or experience? Most notably, the book stresses learning and experience. The reader gets an idea of the life of the Medici family and the role Isabella had in the family, as well as the events that led to her eventual murder.

  

Why would a reader enjoy this book (rank its appeal)

1. The subject (Isabella) or the general Medici family           

2. Specifics of the time period/historical element

3. Characterization – characters are strong, well-depicted and intriguing