Diamond of Drury Lane by Julia Golding
Reading level: grades 5-8
Orphan Catherine Royal, better known as “Cat” to her friends, has been living in Drury Lane since she was a baby. After she discovers the owner of the theatre has hidden a diamond in the building, she vows to help keep it safe. When a viscious street gang discovers the existence of the diamond, Cat must do whatever it takes to protect it. Will the help of her friends -- Pedro, a musical prodigy, two nobles, and another street gang – and her own cunning intelligence be enough to keep the diamond safe?
Set in the 1790’s, Diamond of Drury Lane is a fast-paced, exciting historical fiction with a little mystery for spice. Much of the book is set in the streets of London in Covent Garden. Vivid descriptions of the city and the people bring the story to life. The author uses many phrases and words of that time period which also adds to the atmosphere. There is a glossary in the back of the book for readers who want to familiarize themselves with the language of that period. Readers will be happy to know that there are more books in the series. Recommended.
