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lavanda4 's review for:
George VI and Elizabeth
by Sally Bedell Smith
George VI and Elizabeth is one of the most insightful, beguiling and personal books I have read on the members of the Royal Family. Author Sally Bendall Smith gained access to the Royal Archives, diaries and letters and gives the readers more than mere glimpses into George and Elizabeth's personalities, characters, upbringing, mutual love for each other, sense of duty and steadfastness through tragedies and family division, and horrors of World War II (they themselves very nearly got killed by the bombing of Buckingham Palace). They were both loved as children and adored spending time with their own daughters.
What struck me most is the wonderful complement of two very different personalities, Elizabeth's vibrancy and George's shyness, and how they brought out the best in each other. They were both honest, hard working and loyal. Foibles, shortcomings and quirks are also described. After King Edward VIII abdicated, leaving the monarchy reeling, George and Elizabeth stepped up with remarkable confidence that they probably weren't feeling at first (especially George's public stuttering which he determinedly overcame). The descriptions of their childhoods, courtship, homes and hobbies were interesting and informative. What one couple's strengths accomplished during times of a shattered monarchy is incredible!
So many stories stand out in my mind such as nicknames, Bertie's sweet secret code to his mother after his third engagement proposal, his sensitive character beginning in childhood and debilitating shyness. It was a joy to read about Elizabeth's idyllic childhood, practically living outside and learning names of wildflowers. She was immediately loved by her in-laws and the public due to her kindness and humility.
Whether you are fans of the Royal Family or not, this book is well worth getting your hands on. Don't let the length deter you; it is fascinating and exceptionally well written. I found myself researching more and more during my reading experience as I could not get enough! The photographs are a delight.
My sincere thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this engrossing book.
What struck me most is the wonderful complement of two very different personalities, Elizabeth's vibrancy and George's shyness, and how they brought out the best in each other. They were both honest, hard working and loyal. Foibles, shortcomings and quirks are also described. After King Edward VIII abdicated, leaving the monarchy reeling, George and Elizabeth stepped up with remarkable confidence that they probably weren't feeling at first (especially George's public stuttering which he determinedly overcame). The descriptions of their childhoods, courtship, homes and hobbies were interesting and informative. What one couple's strengths accomplished during times of a shattered monarchy is incredible!
So many stories stand out in my mind such as nicknames, Bertie's sweet secret code to his mother after his third engagement proposal, his sensitive character beginning in childhood and debilitating shyness. It was a joy to read about Elizabeth's idyllic childhood, practically living outside and learning names of wildflowers. She was immediately loved by her in-laws and the public due to her kindness and humility.
Whether you are fans of the Royal Family or not, this book is well worth getting your hands on. Don't let the length deter you; it is fascinating and exceptionally well written. I found myself researching more and more during my reading experience as I could not get enough! The photographs are a delight.
My sincere thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this engrossing book.