First published 1992
John Julius Norwich examines Queen Elizabeth II's first forty years as monarch, from her coronation through the early 1990s. The book emerged from a Victoria and Albert Museum exhibition marking her ruby anniversary. Norwich explores the Queen's constitutional duties alongside her personal interests and family life. He documents grand state occasions like coronations and diplomatic banquets that showcase British ceremonial tradition. The author traces how the monarch's public image evolved across different media, from currency and postage stamps to television coverage and newspaper reporting. Behind the scenes glimpses of royal tours reveal the intricate planning required for official visits abroad. Norwich also ventures into Elizabeth's private world, examining her art collecting, fashion choices, passion for horse racing, and domestic life at Balmoral, Sandringham, and Windsor Castle with her family and beloved corgis. The book draws from the Royal Family's personal photograph collection to illuminate both the public pageantry and intimate moments that defined her reign during this transformative period in British history.
Genres: biography, history, 20th-century, non-fiction, 21st-century, royalty
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: behind-the-scenes, intimate-portrait
Setting: Balmoral, Sandringham, United Kingdom, Windsor Castle
Period: 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s
Paperback · Chrysalis Books