With The Queen celebrating 70 years on the throne last year, a number of books about her were released as well. Pitkin, known for its souvenir books, could hardly stay behind.
The book is just under 100 pages and is thus quite compact. To fit the life of The Queen in so few pages is quite an accomplishment. It’s quite an easy read and covers many important events in The Queen’s life. However, it also contains a few awkward mistakes. For example, Queen Elizabeth I is described as the ancestor of both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, despite the fact that Queen Elizabeth I rather famously (supposedly?) remained a virgin. The Countess of Wessex also receives a new title – that of Duchess, and apparently, Prince William will become Prince of Wales when his father accedes the throne. While the latter is ultimately true, it doesn’t happen automatically or immediately.
Some of the text seems a little outdated, with the repeated use of “Her Majesty” and the use of “females” when describing women working in Buckingham Palace’s telephone exchange.
Overall, it’s a nice little souvenir book to own, but if you’re looking for something more substantial, this isn’t the book for you.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II: Platinum Jubilee Celebration: 70 Years: 1952-2022 by Brian Hoey is available now in the UK and the US.
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