A review by maigahannatu
Anna and the King of Siam by Margaret Landon

4.0

This is a historical novel based on the life and writings of Anna Leonowens. In the 1860's she served as governess of the king of Siam's dozens of children as well as his private secretary. She worked hard to right many of the wrongs taking place around her and was highly influential in shaping the thinking of the crown Prince. When he became king, he outlawed slavery and many demeaning practices such as prostration before anyone of higher rank. For me the book bogged down in places with historical detail, but Margaret Landon does a fabulous job telling Anna's story. And I must say, the movie Anna and the King is highly romanticized and bears little resemblance to the book!